The Buffalo Sabres had a great mix of young and veteran players on their roster coming into this season. But the season ultimately did not turn out how the Sabres had hoped, or anyone had hoped for that matter. But, amongst all of the poor play in Buffalo this past season, one young player emerged who could very well be the face of the franchise for years to come.
Dylan Cozens showed fans a lot during his rookie season in the NHL. He had a lot of hype around him before the season even started when he dominated in the IIHF World Junior Championship for Team Canada. He tallied eight goals and eight assists in seven games played.
In his first season in the NHL, which only included 41 games played for Dylan due to the shortened season, health and safety protocol, and injuries, Cozens scored four goals and had nine assists. Although these stats do not seem like much, it was apparent that the Sabres performed better when Cozens was on the ice. He was a key piece whenever Buffalo’s offense would be running smoothly.
He was more than just a forward on the team this year too. He acted as an enforcer as he got into a few fights while sticking up for his teammates during the season. This is the exact type of player that you want leading your franchise for years to come.
Cozens may be forced into this major leadership role sooner than he would have expected. There is the potential for many big names to be out of Buffalo by the time next season rolls around. With Jack Eichel seeming to be fed up with the organization, it would not come as a surprise if he is traded this offseason. And with players such as Sam Reinhart and Linus Ullmark set to become free agents in 2021, a lot of names we have been used to seeing in Buffalo could be gone sooner than we would have hoped.
Many think that Dylan Cozens could be the next Sabre to wear the “C” on his chest. Whether it happens this upcoming season or a few seasons down the road, Dylan Cozens is definitely fit to be captain.