In a significant trade, the Ottawa Senators acquired Dylan Cozens and Dennis Gilbert from the Buffalo Sabres, sending Josh Norris and Jacob Bernard-Docker back in the deal. Cozens, who is under a seven-year contract worth $49.7 million, has been a consistent performer, tallying 31 points this season. Gilbert, a defenseman, has played sparingly this season but is set to become a free agent.

On the flip side, Norris, in the third year of his eight-year deal, has shown offensive prowess with 33 points this season. Bernard-Docker, while still developing, brings youthful promise as he heads into restricted free agency. This trade signals a strategic shift for both teams as Ottawa looks to solidify its playoff position, currently holding a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, while Buffalo seeks to rebuild.