‘The connection with Granato wasn’t the reason why Clifton was the Sabres’ preferred target in free agency. His self-described “two-way, abrasive” style on the ice complements the gifts that made Dahlin and Power the first overall pick in their respective drafts. At 28 years old, Clifton is someone who Granato and his staff believe can reach another level with more opportunity in a system that instructs defensemen to quickly kill plays along the wall and encourages them to take chances offensively.’