Top NHL contracts analyzed for value

Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres has been identified as one of the NHL's best contracts for the 2026-27 season. According to Dom Luszczyszyn of The Athletic, Dahlin, who had a standout 2025-26 season with 74 points in 77 games, is signed for six more seasons at just $11 million per year.

This is viewed as a significant discount given his performance and potential, especially considering that he could command a salary close to Kirill Kaprizov's average annual value of $17 million if he were a free agent.

With projections indicating a 95% chance that his on-ice performance will exceed his contract value, Dahlin is expected to deliver approximately $37 million in surplus value. This cap space is crucial for the Sabres, especially as they look to build a competitive roster in a tough Atlantic Division, while also managing contracts for younger players like Jack Quinn and Noah Ostlund in the coming years.

As the Sabres prepare for the upcoming season, Dahlin may be asked to take on an even larger role, especially after the departure of Bowen Byram, potentially increasing his average ice time to match that of other top defensemen in the league.