Late in the evening, before free agency was set to kick off, the Ottawa Senators made some news as the Nick Cousins contract details began coming in. There was some uncertainty given that he was still a free agent this late in the game, but for Sen fans, was there really any doubt? How could they possibly let the hardworking, other half of the Rich-Coz (Dylan Cozens), Poor-Cous (Cousins) combo not live on? Apparently, they didn’t think they could (go without it) either. Let’s dive in, time to get sensational.
Credit Image: © David Santiago/Miami Herald/TNS via ZUMA Press Wire
Nick Cousins Contract Extension Details With the Ottawa Senators
Cousins has been grinding for a long time, and this contract is in appreciation of his time, thus far, in Ottawa. The two-year deal carries an average annual value of $1.5875. In the first year, he will get $1.5 million, and that bumps up to $1.675 for year two.
Cousins fits the mold of the Pesky Sens to a tee. Ottawa has guys that players hate playing against, and that is, in part, what makes Nick Cousins so effective. Whether it is Ridly Greig or Shane Pinto, the Sens love to get in your face, and make your night miserable. At this cost, the reliability of a fourth-line veteran, the 2024 Stanley Cup ring in his back pocket, Cousins is an excellent roster piece to keep around.
2025-26 was his 12th year in the NHL. He recorded nine goals, added 14 assists, for a total of 23 points in 11:25 of average ice time. You’re not going to get anything fancy, statistic-wise, but you are going to get a perfect fourth-line player. His career high 169 recorded hits and his in-your-face style are a testament to that fact. The Sens have identified another player that helps them play their style, and one that is impactful come Stanley Cup Playoff time.
The #GosensGo re-signed UFA Nick Cousins to 2 year $1.5875M Cap Hit Deal
Year 1 $1.5M
Year 2 $1.675MRep'd by Craig Oster @TheHockeyAgency
1st on signing @localpodcaster https://t.co/hMNguXDMHf
— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) July 1, 2026
Sounds like Nick Cousins will be back with the Sens on a 2 year deal. #gosensgo
— Brent Wallace (@localpodcaster) July 1, 2026
Main Photo Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images