Rasmus Dahlin is well aware that only five of the 44 skaters selected for the upcoming All-Star Game in Florida are defensemen.
"I guess the fans want to see forwards," the Buffalo Sabres blue-liner told Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News on Monday. "It is what it is. I'm going on vacation and I'm going to have a good time, but, obviously, I want to be there. That's just how it goes."
Dahlin ranks second in scoring among NHL defensemen with 52 points, but he was not named to the Atlantic Division's All-Star roster. Tage Thompson was Buffalo's representative on the initial roster, while Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews and Boston Bruins sniper David Pastrnak earned spots through the NHL All-Star Fan Vote.
All nine skaters on the Atlantic Division's roster are forwards.
Though he'd prefer to participate in the All-Star festivities, Dahlin plans to enjoy a break from his 26:10 of average ice time.
"The rest is well-needed for sure," the 22-year-old said. "A few of us are going to have a good time - mental break and also a physical break. So I'm excited for that, too. Some days, you've got to take your day off if you have to, but I think the body gets used to it."
Dahlin earned the first All-Star nod of his young career last season. He's looking forward to watching Thompson - who's tied for third in the league with 32 goals - put on a show as the Sabres' representative this time around.
"People want to see his skill and what he's good at," Dahlin said. "So I'm super excited for him. I'm going to watch. I want him to do something sick out there and have a blast. I'm sure he's going to do it a few times more in his career, but enjoy this moment, for sure."
