It’s time for another edition of NHL rumours. We’re closing in on the start of the Christmas season and players are ending up on other team’s shopping lists. Some teams are struggling and may have to trade assets to force a reset. This means that contending clubs are seeking important pieces to bolster their rosters. One team that could be in sell mode is the Buffalo Sabres. This edition of NHL rumours deals with one particular young forward that’s garnering interest.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Young Buffalo Sabres Forward Drawing Interest
Rumour: In the latest written edition of 32 Thoughts, the Sabres are getting interest on young forward Dylan Cozens. The 23-year-old still has plenty of time on his deal, but clubs are trying to pry him away from the Queen City.
Analysis: Friedman mentioned that the vultures are seemingly circling the Sabres at this point. Buffalo is up to 10 games on its current losing streak and owner Terry Pegula seems to be annoyed. Reports are that he will be meeting with the club prior to the Sabres game with the Montreal Canadiens.
It’s never a good sign when your owner makes it a point to visit the club during a current road trip. Time could be running out for Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams, who is bearing the brunt of the criticism.
Adams recently had a seemingly out of touch press conference where he blamed the climate and taxes for the Sabres woes. Buffalo fans have responded with bringing inflatable palm trees and chanting “Fire Kevyn” at the embattled general manager.
What It Means
Cozens still has five more seasons at $7.1 million as an annual cap hit. The “Workhorse from Whitehorse” is two years removed from a 30-goal season and has plenty of potential. He is only 23 years old and has been a solid player.
However, the youngster is struggling and so is the team. He only has six goals and seven assists for 13 points in 31 games this season. Cozens had similar struggles last season with only 18 last campaign.
Sabres fans are already thinking the worst with another young superstar possibly leaving town. This situation could reek just like what happened to Jack Eichel and his eventual deal with the Vegas Golden Knights.
It’s a Gamble
Friedman points out that dealing Cozens would be a massive risk for the Sabres. It would signal to the fanbase that the team can’t keep another young star. Buffalo has burned plenty of times seeing young players find greener pastures once they leave Western New York.
The Sportsnet insider warns that the Sabres should tread carefully in this situation. We could see plenty of changes with the Sabres as the team may have to hit the reset button once again.
Buffalo looks like its staring down another season of missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs. A new general manager could come in and they may want to figure out what to do with the young forward so the new GM can set a path going forward.
Main photo by: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
