‘Once considered an unlikely source for offense, Asplund has become a top-six fixture with six goals and 10 points in 22 games since Granato took over on March 17. While much of the praise heaped on Granato has revolved around Casey Mittelstadt’s breakthrough or Rasmus Dahlin’s rejuvenation, and rightfully so, the ascent of Asplund is another silver lining to a 10th consecutive season without playoff hockey in Buffalo.’