Dahlin denies rumor he threatened to request trade: 'That bugs me'

Rasmus Dahlin vowed Tuesday he's fully committed to the Buffalo Sabres following a rumor claiming otherwise.

Dahlin denied Paul Bissonnette's assertion on Tuesday's episode of the "Spittin' Chiclets" podcast that Dahlin told general manager Kevyn Adams he'd request a trade if the team didn't turn things around soon.

"I don't know what he's talking about. I have never said I want out of here," Dahlin said. "I'm not happy with where we're at, I don't want to lose. We have to get better. I've never said I want out of here, I thought that was pretty clear."

Dahlin added: "That bugs me, actually. I get pissed off by that. I haven't even mentioned the word 'leave.' That's just how it is."

Buffalo named Dahlin captain in September 2024. The 24-year-old is in the first season of an eight-year, $88-million contract he signed in October 2023.

Dahlin did speak with Adams last week, but he says the conversation had a different tone than what Bissonnette is claiming.

"We had a real good discussion. We were very honest with each other," Dahlin said, per WKBW's Matt Bove. "Stuff has to change."

The Sabres are en route to extending their NHL-record postseason drought to 14 seasons as they currently sit last in the Eastern Conference standings.

Dahlin is putting together another strong season, though, with 11 goals and 40 assists in 55 games. His 51 points rank fourth among NHL defensemen, and his 24:22 average time on ice is 14th among all skaters.