Lindy Ruff has been looking to get offensive output from his forwards. As November continues, Ruff a few days ago look to mix it up. He broke up the line of Dylan Cozens in the hope of getting him started. He also decided to add him on the wing.
Ruff told reporters of the move, "Trying to free him up to get him a few more opportunities and you get him with a left-handed centerman that can get him the puck and let him use his speed."
Cozens has struggled this season. Before the start of the lineup change, he had only three assists on the year. He also won less than half of his faceoffs at 42.02%. He also has struggled defensively with only five hits against the Panthers being the most in game so far.
The lineup change did help Cozens on Friday as he had his first goal of the season
The lead allowed the Sabres to go up 1-0 against the Islanders in the first period. Cozens' goal came off a Rasmus Dahlin shot that deflected near Jason Zucker. “Sometimes that’s all you need to get going, is just an easy one like that. Great job by ‘Zucks’ in front of the net to make it happen, Cozens told reporters.
Even though the Sabres lost 4-3 against the Islanders it may be what the center needs to get going. He had factored into Lindy Ruff's plans but thus far as yet to cash in on the year. They need more production from him if they want any chance to turn things around this season.
The move to the wing, is a move that Cozens feels could benefit him. “I think that’s one of the most dangerous things about my game. I should get more looks with that, and I think it offers more shots off the rush, too," said the 23-year-old.
The Sabres have three games this week. If Cozens can use the momentum of his first goal to start a point streak it could mean could things for both him and Buffalo. His career high in points was in the 2022/23 season where he had 68 points.
His 68 points that year also helped Buffalo in the standings. They were only one point away from the postseason, which is the closest they have been in 13 years. Cozens has plenty of time to get back on track and help lead Buffalo into postseason contention.