Sabres Rasmus Dahlin Takes Leave After Fiancées Medical Crisis

Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team. He is traveling to Sweden to support his fiancée, Carolina Matovac, during her recovery from a major heart transplant. The announcement was made by Sabres coach Lindy Ruff on Friday, November 21, 2025.

The organization has expressed its full and unwavering support for Dahlin’s decision. This situation highlights the profound personal challenges professional athletes can face away from the public eye.

The Medical Crisis Behind the Leave

The need for this leave stems from a life-threatening medical emergency this past summer. While on vacation in France, Matovac suffered a sudden and severe heart failure. She required immediate CPR and was placed on life support.

After weeks of critical care, she underwent a successful heart transplant procedure. The couple has been navigating the complex and lengthy recovery process ever since. They publicly shared their story in September to raise awareness.

Unwavering Support from the Sabres Organization

Coach Lindy Ruff was unequivocal in his support for his captain. He stated that family and personal matters always take precedence over hockey. According to reports from ESPN, Ruff expressed deep empathy for Dahlin’s situation.

The team has not set a timetable for Dahlin’s return. Their sole focus is on the well-being of Dahlin and his family during this difficult time. This human-first approach has been echoed throughout the organization.

Performance and Perspective This Season

Despite the immense personal strain, Dahlin’s on-ice performance remained notable. In 14 games this season, he recorded nine points, averaging over 24 minutes of ice time per game. His leadership on the blue line has been a constant for the Sabres.

However, Dahlin himself recently expressed a desire to contribute more offensively. The emotional weight of his fiancée’s health has been an undeniable factor. His decision to step away underscores the priority of family.

The Human Element in Professional Sports

Dahlin’s situation serves as a powerful reminder of the people behind the athletes. His choice to prioritize his partner’s health demonstrates a profound form of leadership. It resonates beyond wins, losses, and statistics.

The sports world is now witnessing a different kind of strength. It is the strength found in vulnerability, compassion, and putting a loved one first. The entire NHL community has rallied in support of the young defenseman.

The indefinite leave for Rasmus Dahlin is a poignant chapter that transcends hockey. His commitment to his fiancée’s recovery from a heart transplant defines true leadership and character. The Sabres organization has set a powerful example by prioritizing humanity above all else.

Thought you’d like to know

Why is Rasmus Dahlin not playing?

Dahlin is on an indefinite personal leave. He is in Sweden supporting his fiancée, Carolina Matovac, as she recovers from a heart transplant she received after a major cardiac event.

What happened to Carolina Matovac?

She suffered a sudden heart failure while on vacation in France this summer. The situation was critical, requiring life support and leading to a necessary heart transplant procedure.

How long will Dahlin be out?

There is no current timetable for his return to the Buffalo Sabres. The organization has made it clear that his leave will last for as long as he and his family need.

How have the Sabres responded?

Coach Lindy Ruff and the entire organization have offered their full public support. They have emphasized that family and personal health are more important than hockey.

What were Dahlin’s stats this season?

Before his leave, Dahlin had one goal and eight assists for nine points in 14 games. He was logging significant minutes as the team’s top defenseman and captain.