As we are entering 2025 next week, the Buffalo Sabres look like they will miss the playoffs for a 14th consecutive season. Barring a huge turnaround in the second half of the year, Buffalo's play is not shaping up to make the postseason. Even though they finally ended their losing streak before the Christmas break against the New York Islanders on Monday night, it still has been another disappointing season for the blue and gold.
Changes need to be made
Even with the win, general manager Kevyn Adams should consider making some moves. One player whose name gets brought up in trade rumors is Dylan Cozens. In 35 games played, Cozens has 7 goals and 10 assists for 17 points. After a sluggish start to the season, the Workhorse from Whitehorse has 6 points (2 goals 4 assists) in his last 10 games.
Upside and downside of trading Cozens
With just about every player, there's a risk trading away one of your foundation players. For the upside, you might get a NHL proven player and a good prospect in return. Even though his numbers are down, I do believe Cozens has some potential. But after signing the extension with Buffalo a couple of years ago, Dylan has underperformed.
As for the downside, you don't need me to remind you in the Sabres unfortunate luck of trading away players who then thrive and in some cases win the Stanley Cup with their new teams. I know he has struggled recently but I believe Adams doesn't want to take his chances because of his previous trades.
According to @FriedgeHNIC, the Sabres are getting calls on Dylan Cozens and he is "legitimately wanted." pic.twitter.com/HBkgDTC8bl
— The Charging Buffalo (@TheChargingBUF) December 13, 2024
Stats aside, one weakness for Dylan over the last year or two has been his defensive play. Whether it's bad positioning or a giveaway, his defense needs to improve. While Cozens has been a topic of conversation, it doesn't help the general manager didn't do anything to improve the top six in the offseason.
The NHL roster freeze ends tomorrow December 27th, so will see whether or not moves will happen. If Buffalo wants to turn their season around, players like Dylan need to step up and Adams cannot continue to ride it out with his current core. Moves need to happen, even if they don't trade Cozens. Something has to happen and quickly.