The Ottawa Senators' acquisition of Dylan Cozens at the 2025 trade deadline was a calculated risk aimed at injecting a new dynamic into their top-six forwards. In Cozens, they sought a game-breaking talent who, despite a somewhat underwhelming tenure with the Buffalo Sabres, possessed the potential to be a key offensive driver. Now, as the 2025-26 season progresses, the returns on that investment are becoming apparent, albeit with a degree of complexity.
Through the first 27 games, Cozens has emerged as a compelling, if somewhat polarizing, figure in Ottawa. His offensive contributions are undeniable; he has provided the spark that General Manager Steve Staios envisioned. With nine goals and 17 points, Cozens is currently on pace for a 27-goal season, a significant improvement from his previous performance in Buffalo.
This resurgence isn't simply a matter of luck. Cozens has visibly transformed, displaying increased speed, sharpness, and aggression. A demanding offseason training regimen, overseen by Senators director of player development Sam Gagner, focused on enhancing his skating stride, has played a crucial role in this development. The result is a player who proactively pursues the puck, carrying it through the neutral zone and attacking the middle of the ice with renewed confidence. This is a welcome change for a Senators team that has, at times, struggled to generate consistent offensive pressure.
However, Cozens' high-octane offensive style comes with inherent risks. While his offensive flair is undeniable, concerns linger about his defensive game and overall consistency. Historically, Cozens has been criticized for struggling to create quality chances and for defensive lapses when his offensive game isn't firing on all cylinders.
Recent games illustrate this dichotomy. In a 4-2 loss to the New York Rangers on December 4, 2025, Cozens scored a power-play goal, showcasing his offensive capabilities, but also registered a minus-2 rating, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. This performance encapsulates the Cozens conundrum: a player capable of game-changing offensive contributions but also prone to defensive lapses that can negate his positive impact.
The Senators' coaching staff, led by Travis Green, faces the challenge of harnessing Cozens' offensive talent while mitigating the risks associated with his playing style. Finding the right linemates and deploying him in situations that maximize his strengths while minimizing his exposure in the defensive zone will be crucial. There is some evidence that putting Drake Batherson back on the right side of Cozens could be a good move, given their past chemistry.
The acquisition of Dylan Cozens was a bold move by the Ottawa Senators, a gamble on a player with undeniable offensive gifts but also some clear shortcomings. Whether the Senators can successfully integrate Cozens into their system and unlock his full potential remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Cozens' presence will continue to be a captivating storyline as the 2025-26 season unfolds. His offensive firepower offers the potential to elevate the Senators' attack, but his high-risk style demands careful management and a commitment to addressing his defensive deficiencies.
