OTTAWA — The 2025 NHL trade deadline was one for the books for the Ottawa Senators, as they made significant moves to bolster their roster. On March 7, the Senators acquired center Dylan Cozens and winger Fabian Zetterlund, along with Dennis Gilbert, Tristen Robins, and two draft picks. The deals included trading away fan-favorite Josh Norris, among other players, shocking many within the organization.
Brady Tkachuk, the Senators captain, expressed his emotional reaction to the departure of Norris. "It’s pretty tough," Tkachuk said, visibly affected by the trade. "It sucks losing a guy like him. Obviously, everybody knows how much he means to me." The bond between Tkachuk and Norris has deep roots, as they played youth hockey together, making this trade particularly difficult for the captain.
General Manager Steve Staios stood by his decisions, stating, "We had a plan going in, and we feel like we're a stronger team today." The Senators aimed to improve their five-on-five scoring, which had been lacking, and Cozens, who has doubled Norris’ five-on-five production, was targeted as part of this strategy. Having struggled recently, Cozens has been labeled as underperforming, but his potential for growth was enough for the Senators to make the leap.
Norris had been one of the bright spots for the Senators, securing 20 goals and multiple assists this season alone. His absence raises questions about how the team will maintain consistency, especially since he is recovering from multiple shoulder surgeries. Despite his injuries, Norris had established himself as one of the faces of the franchise over his 236-game career.
Meanwhile, Cozens brings with him not only potential but also familiarity with Drake Batherson, who played with him at the World Championships. Baherson believes the duo can easily meld their chemistry on the ice. "I think he’ll fit in great," Batherson remarked, indicating optimism about the new additions. Having Cozens on the roster is expected to help bridge any gaps left by Norris.
Staios executed his trade strategy quickly, starting with the deal for Cozens and Gilbert from the Buffalo Sabres, followed by acquiring Zetterlund and Robins from San Jose with seconds to spare before the deadline. Zetterlund, who has been effective with 17 goals—13 at even strength—was seen as another significant addition to strengthen the team’s attack. His ability to deliver offensive contributions complements the Senators’ priorities this season.
Through these trades, Staios not only improved the Senators' scoring but also managed to replenish the team's draft capital through strategic trades. Zetterlund and Cozens could provide immediate help, and the second-round pick acquired from Buffalo could yield future talent.
The urgency for the Senators has grown as they now enter the second half of the season, fraught with playoff hopes. With every team in the Eastern Conference fighting for positioning, these trades could prove to be pivotal. The Senators currently stand within reach of playoff contention, making each move extraordinarily valuable.
Brady Tkachuk’s emotional response to the trade of Norris signifies the bond within the team, yet it also emphasizes the challenges of the trade deadline. "I feel bad for the initial reaction," he said, acknowledging the whirlwind around the recent transactions. "But the reality is we must welcome Cozens and Gilbert with open arms." His commitment to supporting new teammates outlines the captain’s role as many players will experience the related transitions.
What remains to be seen is how the Senators will navigate the remainder of the season post-trade. The integration of the new players alongside the squad will be the first test of this revamped roster’s chemistry. The addition of Cozens and Zetterlund brings hope for improvement as they head toward their playoff run.
The Senators’ future just might hinge on the success of these new players and the stability of their remaining roster amid the shifting dynamics caused by trades. Only time will tell if the Senators' bold strategy pays off, but the adjustments have created renewed optimism for hockey fans.
With all eyes now on their next game against the New York Rangers, the Senators aim to showcase the potential of their new lineup and fight for their place on the brink of the playoffs.