Dylan Cozens excelled in his first full season with the Ottawa Senators, earning a B+ grade from both staff and readers. Known for his work ethic, Cozens demonstrated a team-first mentality, contributing significantly to the club's center depth with 28 goals and 31 assists (59 points) in the regular season. His contract is considered valuable given his age and potential, especially with the expected rise in the salary cap. Cozens proved himself as a clutch performer, scoring two goals in four playoff games, reinforcing his reliability in critical moments.

By the Numbers
  • 28 goals and 31 assists in the regular season (59 points) — third in team scoring.
  • Scored 2 goals in 4 playoff games, placing second on the team in playoff points.
Yes, But

While trading from a position of strength can bolster weak areas, sacrificing center depth could be detrimental, given the difficulty of replacing centers in hockey. This perspective highlights the challenge of maintaining a strong core while addressing other team needs.

State of Play
  • Cozens is signed for another four years, making his contract a significant asset.
  • The Senators are looking to improve their scoring depth, particularly on the wings, to enhance overall team performance.
What's Next

Future developments may see the Senators targeting high-end scoring wingers to maximize Cozens' potential and strengthen offensive depth. Acquiring additional wing talent could enable Cozens to form a more consistent pairing with Drake Batherson.

Bottom Line

Retaining Cozens is crucial for sustaining the Senators' center depth, which is foundational for a successful team. Strengthening the wings while keeping a strong core will be essential for future competitiveness.