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Dahlin eager to build on last season after Atlantic-winning Sabres snapped 14-year playoff drought

Following the shortest summer of his career due to a personal medical ordeal involving his fiancée that is now happily resolved, Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin enters the new campaign fully focused on defending the Atlantic Division crown. Buffalo aims to prove last season's breakthrough—which included a first playoff series win since 2007—was no fluke, despite parting ways over the summer with forwards Alex Tuch and Bowen Byram.

General manager Jarmo Kekalainen is relying on a wave of youthful talent under 24 to complement the remaining veteran core as the team prepares to open its schedule against Columbus.

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