Competitive Edge
Like Dahlin’s leadership qualities, his competitive edge has drawn praise from everyone in the organization, from Granato to general manager Kevyn Adams. Before Granato bestowed the Granato Effect onto Dahlin, the defenseman took a more conservative approach to his game. And predictably, Dahlin stagnated.
Granato realized Dahlin had a competitive drive, but was holding it back. In response, Granato had just two words for Dahlin: “Just go.”
And it’s all Dahlin needed to unlock his competitive edge. Here is what Granato said on the matter earlier in the week:
"“I felt there was a real competitive burn there I needed to help him unleash where he wasn’t worried about any repercussion from me or what I think, potentially negative.” – via Buffalo Hockey Beat."
Dahlin’s lack of aggression in the past stemmed from fear of disappointment. But Granato said otherwise, assuring Dahlin true competitors disappoint no one. And he’s right. Ultra-competitors, regardless of the sport they play, give their teammates realistic chances to win games.
If they lose, at least they lost doing everything in their power to win. Dahlin finally realizes that. You can see it on display at home or on the road when he shouts encouragement to teammates, and standing instead of sitting when not on the ice.
Rasmus Dahlin has become a different player in 2021-22. His potential has been unlocked. Now, it’s exciting to see what his future holds.
(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference)