On a day when Buffalo sports fans are worried about losing All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano for the season, the Buffalo Sabres are ready to cheer us up.

EXTRA: MATT MILANO EXPECTED TO MISS SEASON

This morning the Sabres announced they have signed former #1 overall pick Rasmus Dahlin to a new 8-year deal.



During his career in Buffalo, Dahlin has scored 46 goals and 187 assists for a total of 233 points in 355 career games. He is only one of 12 defensemen in NHL history to score 200 points or more before his 23rd birthday.

The New 96.1 WTSS logo
Get our free mobile app

The Sabres have done a good job of locking up their young talent to long-term deals. Last season they signed Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens and defenseman Mattias Samuelsson to seven-year deals.  

The Sabres are being picked to make the playoffs this season, something they have not done since 2011, the longest playoff drought in the NHL.

The deal comes just a couple of days before the Sabres kick off their regular season. The Sabres open the season at home this Thursday against the New York Rangers.

Last season the Sabres finished just outside the playoffs and fans are hoping with the young talent here in Western New York, this will be the year they make a run to win the Stanley Cup.

3 Reasons Ryan Reynolds Should Buy The Buffalo Sabres

The Buffalo Sabres do not appear to be officially for sale. However, recent changes to their business structure have many speculating about the team's future. If they were to be sold, the perfect owner may be actor and Wrexham AFC owner Ryan Reynolds.

Gallery Credit: Getty Images

7 Moments We Want To Erase From Buffalo Sabres' History

These moments hurt our souls, made us cry, and we wish they never happened...but now that they have, we will never forget them.

Gallery Credit: Canva Image & Getty Image via Kadie Daye

Buffalo Sabres Goalie Masks

Take a look at some amazing Goalie Masks in Buffalo Sabres history.

Gallery Credit: Dave Fields

More From The New 96.1 WTSS