Cozens Addresses Trade Rumors as Canadiens Eye Playoff Push

MONTREAL — During a recent game against the Buffalo Sabres, Dylan Cozens spoke out about ongoing trade rumors linking him to the Montreal Canadiens. The game, held on March 2, 2025, marked a crucial moment as the Canadiens continue to vie for a playoff spot, riding a four-game winning streak.

Cozens, a center for the Sabres, addressed the speculation in an interview on Montreal’s 98.5 radio during the broadcast. “I’ve heard about it, but well, I try to block out these distractions and focus on my game,” Cozens said. “I signed here for the long term.” His remarks suggest a commitment to Buffalo, despite the allure of a Canadiens team that currently sits one point out of playoff contention.

Montreal’s general manager, Kent Hughes, is in a unique position ahead of the NHL trade deadline, set for March 5, 2025. The Canadiens are looking to capitalize on their success, and Hughes has indicated that he won’t be trading away key players just for the sake of selling.

“We wanted this group and this young group of players to be under the pressure of learning to win when it counts,” Hughes noted midway through the season. The team’s ability to remain competitive this late in the season is a testament to their progress, and Hughes finds himself with options as the deadline approaches.

Currently projected to have $6,649,167 in cap space, Hughes described how he’s willing to evaluate trade offers but is not under any obligation to make moves before the deadline. He emphasized the importance of making sound decisions that will benefit the team both now and in the future.

Nick Suzuki, the Canadiens’ captain, also commented on the recent winning streak, stating, “We’ve shown that we can win and be a good team. There’s no reason to trade anyone.” This sentiment echoes the unity within the locker room as the team strives for postseason play.

However, the prospect of adding talent remains on the table, especially as Hughes considers options such as acquiring a second-line center. Cozens, who fits that description, may be one of several players on Hughes’ radar, though it remains uncertain if such a trade could materialize prior to the deadline.

As the season progresses, the Canadiens face a crucial matchup on March 5 against the Oilers in Edmonton, marking a pivotal moment in their playoff pursuit. Should Hughes decide to make aggressive moves, it would send a strong message to the players that the organization believes in their current trajectory. However, standing pat could also reinforce the trust placed in this developing squad.