The Sabres hosting the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday meant the return of forward Dylan Cozens to Buffalo.

The Sabres' seventh-overall selection in 2019 was traded earlier this month after struggling for the past two seasons in Buffalo.

He's had an immediate impact with the Senators, helping them stay in the playoff race with three goals and four assists in eight games.

Cozens acknowledged hearing his name in the rumor mill most of the season, but says he didn't believe it greatly impacted his game.

"I kind of just figured it was just rumors, like everyone's name gets out there, especially if you're struggling a bit, your name's thrown out there more and obviously I was struggling," he said. "I don't think it really affected [me mentally] so much."

The 24-year-old added he wished things could have turned out different with the Sabres.

"I wanted to be here,” he said. “I was committed to being here. I wanted to be a part of the solution. It is sad that it didn't work out, you know? I really wanted to be a part of the solution and help turn things around here.

“I know everyone in that room wants so bad to win here and be a successful team here and it’s tough losing repeatedly. It wears on you. I wish those guys nothing but the best over there."

Cozens played 341 games in Buffalo over five seasons, amassing 197 points. He signed a seven-year contract extension with the Sabres in February 2023 before getting traded to the Senators.

Forward Josh Norris, a player the Sabres received in return for Cozens, remains out with an undisclosed injury. He had two points in three games before getting hurt.

The other player the Sabres acquired in the deal, defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker, has two points in two games so far with his new club.