NHL fans were disappointed to hear the news that Tage Thompson would be unable to participate in the 2023 All-Star weekend due to an undisclosed injury. Thompson has been a standout player for the Buffalo Sabres this season, with 34 goals and 34 assists for a total of 68 points in 50 games.
Despite this setback, Thompson’s teammate Rasmus Dahlin has been selected to replace him at the All-Star event. Dahlin, a 22-year-old defenseman, has also been having a strong season, with 14 goals and 41 assists for a total of 55 points in 49 games.
While Thompson will certainly be missed at the All-Star weekend, Dahlin’s inclusion is a testament to his own talent, ability, and the strength of the Buffalo Sabres team this season having multiple players over a point per game. The All-Star break will provide a chance for the players to rest and recharge before the push for the playoffs, where the Sabres currently sit just one point outside of a wild card spot.
With a solid second half of the season, the Sabres have the potential to make the playoffs and make a deep run. They will likely want to add a piece at the deadline if they continue to stay in the race, but they certainly wouldn’t want to risk their future for a spot at the playoffs this season. They have a very young talented group, and are very unlikely to make it even to the conference finals if they do make it into playoffs. Teams like Boston, Toronto, and Tampa Bay are going to be extremely hard to beat this year.
