Editor’s note: We’re kicking off our Draft profile series for the 2019 season. We’ll break down the basics of each player, we ask that you weigh in on what you think this player could be for the Red Wings. Enjoy!
Dylan Cozens, Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL)
BIO
Position: C/RW (Right-handed)
Age on Draft Day: 18
Height/Weight: 6’3”/181
2018-19 Stats: 68 GP, 34 G, 50 A, +32
Projection: 5th (Elite Prospects, Future Considerations, TSN Bob McKenzie)
About
When the lottery happened and we were all disappointed with the Red Wings dropping to the 6th pick, one name that was consistent with the Wings at No. 6 was Dylan Cozens. With the Red Wings seemingly looking at a possible “best available” scenario, Cozens will be under heavy consideration by Detroit, as he will likely be there for them. He’s a huge, lanky center with major goal scoring capabilities. To me, he reminds me of a combination of Zadina and Rasmussen, with Zadina’s ability and Rasmussen’s size.
Many believe he’ll never dominate the league offensively, but will be able to be a consistent 30-goal scoring, while also being able to play a great 200-foot game. Similarities in style include Patrice Bergeron and Ryan Kesler. That’s not to say Cozens will be as good as either of them, but that’s the kind of game he plays. Add that ability with his size, that could be a really solid player for the Red Wings. He is only 181 pounds, which you would expect from an 18-year-old. So if he can add some weight as he grows and gets older, he could ending being a great Top-two center for the Red Wings, who are seemingly always looking for players who can play a 200-foot game.
From what I have read and seen from him on Youtube, he skates like all of the 6’3” he is. He’s a big guy, and you can tell he’s a bit slower on the jump. However, once he gets moving he has some great speed. He’s not going to blow you away on his edges, but for the goal scoring, 200-foot forward he is, if he can develop a better first step the sky may be the limit for the 18-year-old. You can tell he has benefited from being such a big specimen in the WHL (The five 100-point scorers in the league averaged out to be 5’10”, 183 lbs).
The scoring ability and defensive zone awareness are not going anywhere anytime soon and Cozens can only get better in those two areas. If he can add a few pounds while also working on his strength and speed, he will be a great No. 1 or No. 2 center for years to come for the NHL. I have no problem with the Red Wings taking him assuming Turcotte is not there. It will be interesting to see what Yzerman and company think of Cozens, because it’s safe to assume he will be there at #6.
Would you like the Red Wings taking Dylan Cozens at #6?
| Like it | 167 |
| Don’t like it | 74 |
| Depends who else is there (add in comments who you would take over him) | 278 |
