The Ottawa Senators are gearing up for an active offseason, with a focus on bolstering their roster through trades and free agency. With the NHL Draft approaching, the team's president of hockey operations and general manager, Steve Staios, is already making waves. According to sources, Staios has been meeting with league executives and player agents, indicating a strategic approach to addressing the team's needs.
One of the key areas of interest is the top-six winger position. The Senators are seeking a player who can complement Tim Stützle and captain Brady Tkachuk. While they lack significant assets for a major splash, sources suggest that Anaheim's Mason McTavish could be a realistic target, given the existing organizational ties. However, the team is also exploring other options, as early deadline chatter mentioned Jordan Kyrou, but it was deemed unrealistic at this stage.
On the blue line, the Senators are prioritizing the addition of a top-four right-shot defenseman. With veteran Nick Jensen expected to test unrestricted free agency following knee surgery, the team is also considering RFA Jordan Spence, who averaged 25 minutes of ice time during the postseason and holds arbitration rights. These negotiations could be tricky.
The Senators also explored adding veteran help at the March trade deadline, checking in on St. Louis veterans Colton Parayko and Justin Faulk. However, neither was willing to waive their new move clauses to come to Ottawa. Faulk was ultimately dealt to Detroit, while Parayko declined to waive his no-move clause despite a strong offer from Buffalo.
In net, the Senators are expected to focus on backup goaltending, with Leevi Meriläinen expected to qualify, while monitoring UFA options like Connor Ingram and Stuart Skinner. The team is also looking to retain veteran forwards Claude Giroux and Nick Cousins, with Staios reportedly high on retaining both, likely returning on another bonus-heavy structure.
Trade talks will be challenging without the draft capital of their No. 32 overall draft selection. However, with the draft approaching and free agency looming on July 1, expect trade discussions to intensify as clubs position themselves for the upcoming season.
The Senators' active offseason strategy is a testament to their commitment to improving and competing at the highest level. With a strategic approach to trades and free agency, the team is poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season.
