The Buffalo Sabres started the year with the goal to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2010-11 season. However, their 11-16-4 record makes them the 15th team in the Eastern Conference. They currently sit six points out of a playoff spot. Kevyn Adams, Buffalo’s General Manager, has said he’s not looking to make a big trade, but the Sabres have now lost ten games in a row. Something’s gotta give.
The Chicago Blackhawks are in the midst of a rebuild, and are looking for players to help them in the long run. Vinnie Parise of The Hockey News lists Chicago as a potential landing spot for a certain Buffalo Sabres player who hasn’t lived up to his contract.
Dylan Cozens is 23 and was the seventh overall pick in the 2019 NHL draft. After a great season in 2022-23 where he scored 31 goals and had 68 points in 81 games, the Sabres inked him to a seven year deal worth $7.1 million per year. He took a step back last season, scoring 18 goals and 47 points. This season, he has just six goals and 13 points through 31 games.
Why it would work
The Blackhawks have a solid prospect pool, but don’t have a lot of NHL-ready centers. Cozens could slot into the top six right now, and could play either center or wing. If he regains his 2022-23 form, he would be a great addition. He can also play on the powerplay.
Why it wouldn’t work
Cozens doesn’t exactly fit into Chicago’s timeline. The Blackhawks likely won’t be competitive for another two or three years. And if Cozens doesn’t live up to his potential, $7.1 million through the 2029-30 season will hinder Chicago’s eventual Stanley Cup aspirations.
What he would cost
Despite a slow start to the season, Cozens probably wouldn’t come cheap. He’d be worth a first round pick at least in a deal with most NHL teams, but since Chicago is projected to get a top-three pick, I doubt they trade their first for any reason. I could see Buffalo getting a second round pick, along with a prospect or a player like Lukas Reichel in return.
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