Dahlin showed growth in his leadership role and defensive presence in 2023-24

Dahlin had a career-high 2,059:13 in 81 games this season, the fourth-highest mark in the NHL. In addition to his 20-goal debut season, he set career highs in hits (195) and blocked shots (154).

The Sabers were +245 in shot attempts when Dahlin was on the ice 5-on-5, often against opposing teams’ top lines.

Dahlin took his workaholic role to another level during a stretch in February when he eclipsed 29 minutes in seven straight games – the first NHL player to do that since Erik Karlsson in 2015-16 and the seventh since the league began tracking ice time in 1997-98.

Zach Benson got an up-close look at the work that goes into the tireless attitude Dahlin brings to the ice. Dahlin – who entered the league at 18, like Benson – invited Benson to live with him at the start of the season.

While Dahlin spent his first year living with another rookie in Casey Mittelstadt, both adjusting to life in the league together, Benson had the benefit of absorbing the daily habits of a three-time All-Star .

“You learn that he takes such good care of his body,” Benson said. “He’s always ready to go.” He’s always doing everything he can to become a better player and life with him, I really got to see that behind the scenes and I’m very grateful for that.”

Dahlin will begin his offseason playing for Sweden in the IIHF World Championship, which begins Friday. He will be part of a talented Swedish team that also features Norris Trophy winners Karlsson and Victor Hedman on defense.

After that, he said, his and his teammates’ focus will be on the work needed this offseason to take the Sabers to the next level.

“We need a good summer,” Dahlin said. “When we get to training camp, we need a really good camp. And we have to push ourselves. We have a group of young people who are hungry and we need to be pushed hard. And we are ready for it.