Dylan Cozens' performance has noticeably dipped following a brutal fight with Garnet Hathaway during the 2023-24 season. Given the intensity of that incident, it’s unlikely he will engage in fisticuffs regularly. However, his new responsibility with the Ottawa Senators involves easing the burden on teammate Brady Tkachuk by taking on tougher minutes. If Cozens can rediscover his form from two seasons ago and Josh Norris remains injury-free, both the Senators and Buffalo Sabres will benefit significantly.

The Buffalo Sabres have made a significant trade by acquiring Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker from the Ottawa Senators, sending Dylan Cozens, Dennis Gilbert, and a second-round pick in 2026 to Ottawa. This move is set to revamp the Sabres' roster, with Norris expected to play a pivotal role in the top six. Norris will don No. 13, previously worn by Lukas Rousek, while Bernard-Docker will take on No. 24, the same number Cozens had before his trade. Both players are anticipated to bring fresh energy and skill to the Sabres as they aim to improve their playoff chances.

In a crucial matchup, the New York Rangers prepare to face the Ottawa Senators in an afternoon game that could define their playoff hopes. The Senators recently traded Josh Norris for Dylan Cozens, which adds a dynamic offensive element but also raises questions about team chemistry. The Rangers, however, boast a more consistent roster and have improved their execution in recent games.

Carson Soucy is set to make his debut for the Rangers following a recent trade, while Chris Kreider's status remains uncertain. With a tough schedule ahead, the Rangers need a strong performance against the Senators and will likely aim for a victory to solidify their playoff position.

In a surprising move, the Ottawa Senators traded Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker to the Buffalo Sabres for Dylan Cozens, a second-round pick, and Dennis Gilbert. Cozens, 24, is younger and has shown promise, with a standout season where he scored 31 goals. However, his production has dipped recently, raising questions about his fit with the Senators' struggling offense. The Senators see Cozens as a key piece for their future, especially as they manage Norris's injury history and high contract. This trade not only shifts dynamics within the team but also has significant financial implications.

New York Rangers GM Chris Drury expressed confidence in his team's direction while discussing trade strategies centered around forward Chris Kreider. Drury emphasized balancing the acquisition of future assets with belief in the current roster's potential.

Meanwhile, trade talks involving Josh Norris and Ryan O'Reilly between the Ottawa Senators and Nashville Predators fell through, indicating that player moves remain fluid as the deadline approaches. The Vancouver Canucks could also be a player in the market for a centerman like Norris, given their previous interest.

Additionally, Ryan Donato's future with the Chicago Blackhawks hangs in suspense as contract extension talks continue amidst interest from several teams.