NHL Trade Rumors: Pacific Division Team Has "Contacted" Sabres About Dylan Cozens
The Calgary Flames have contacted the Buffalo Sabres about acquiring Dylan Cozens, according to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.
Cozens, a 23-year-old center, is an appealing target for Calgary as they search for a young, right-shot forward under the age of 25 to strengthen their roster.
Standing 6-foot-3 with a blend of size and skill, Cozens is signed through the 2029-30 season at a $7.1 million annual cap hit. While his current season has been underwhelming, with 10 goals and 22 points in 44 games, his 2022-23 breakout—31 goals and 37 assists—established him as a legitimate top-six center with significant upside.
If the cost of acquiring Dylan Cozens from the #SabreHood included sending one of Connor Zary or Matt Coronato the other way.
— Todd Hodge (@Tawdge) January 3, 2025
Would you? And which one?#Flames
LeBrun reported that the Flames are one of several teams expressing interest in Cozens, with the Detroit Red Wings also pursuing him earlier this season.
Despite Buffalo's willingness to entertain offers, acquiring Cozens won’t come cheaply. Calgary may need to include one of their four first-round picks over the next two drafts or a high-impact player to meet the Sabres' demands.
Flames GM Craig Conroy has ruled out moving defenseman Rasmus Andersson, despite speculation surrounding his name, leaving Calgary to explore other assets for a potential trade.
Flames should go after Dylan Cozens and / or Zegras. Draft capital can only bring you so much. No guarantee with top 5 picks either. Often not mentioned. Often observed.
— Nishant Mehrotra (@nmehrotra) January 10, 2025
Let Rangers and Canucks screw each other up. ciao.
Cozens could be the offensive boost Calgary desperately needs, as they currently rank 27th in the league in goals per game.
The Flames remain in the playoff mix in the Western Conference and are working to reshape their roster with younger, skilled players.
With ample draft capital and accrued cap space, Calgary has the resources to make a competitive offer for Cozens as they aim to address their scoring struggles and secure a long-term piece for their core.
Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
