The Ottawa Senators made a significant move ahead of the NHL trade deadline, acquiring center Dylan Cozens and defenseman Dennis Gilbert from the Buffalo Sabres. In exchange, the Senators sent center Josh Norris and defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker to Buffalo, along with a 2026 second-round draft pick. Cozens, the seventh overall pick in 2019, has been a standout this season with 11 goals and 20 assists. His size, standing at 6'3" and weighing 207 pounds, complements Ottawa's roster, particularly alongside captain Brady Tkachuk. Meanwhile, Norris, who has struggled with injuries, has 20 goals this season and carries a hefty contract. Bernard-Docker, a first-round draft pick in 2018, has underperformed this season but is still seen as a valuable asset.

This trade reflects Ottawa's push for a playoff position as they hold onto the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. The Senators currently have 67 points, tied with the New York Rangers, while the Sabres languish at the bottom of the standings. This trade may help Ottawa solidify its roster as it heads toward the playoffs, while Buffalo continues its rebuild.