It's not uncommon for players Cozens's age to get physically burned out by the NHL schedule. Seeing how this schedule is even more intense than a normal NHL season, it makes sense. Those who read other things into it are just ignoring this fact.
I'd be happy if him & Risto just took gratuitous runs at him the whole game. Those two could easily send a message, even if it's just clean hits every time he's on the ice.
Skinner is getting chances, despite his line assignment. His bad puck luck from last year is carrying over. Hopefully he'll just make up for it with sheer volume.