As June rolls in, the NHL offseason is in full swing, and the Ottawa Senators find themselves at a crucial crossroads. With just two teams still vying for the ultimate prize, the Senators are gearing up to make some significant moves ahead of the 2025-26 season. After breaking an eight-year playoff drought, the excitement in Ottawa is palpable, and the decisions ahead could define their trajectory in the league.
The Senators’ president of hockey operations and GM, Steve Staios, is keenly aware of the need for roster improvements, and all signs indicate a focused pursuit of scoring talent. Last season, the Senators ranked 18th in the league with just 2.67 goals per game, so finding a top-six forward is at the top of their wish list. However, as any hockey fan knows, bolstering the offense is easier said than done.
The potential future of veteran Claude Giroux is drawing significant attention in discussions about the team’s direction. Reports suggest that serious negotiations regarding an extension are on the horizon. Should those talks falter, the Senators are prepared to pivot towards different options.
In the midst of trade chatter, names like Mitch Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers have surfaced in connection with Ottawa. While there’s no solid indication that either player is actively seeking a move, the Senators are making their interest known. Marner, who could command around $14 million per season if he hits the open market, might be stretching Ottawa’s financial limits. Ehlers isn’t far behind either, with estimates hovering around $9.5 million annually.
On the blue line, the Senators are eyeing a right-shot defenceman. With Nick Jensen reportedly recovering from hip surgery, the Senators may need to look elsewhere for help on defense. Names like Aaron Ekblad are bound to attract attention in free agency, and there’s even buzz around a possible return for Erik Karlsson, though the legitimacy of that talk remains uncertain.
To facilitate any additions, trade discussions involving winger Drake Batherson have resurfaced. Despite a solid season where he netted 26 goals and racked up 68 points, inconsistent play during the playoffs has raised concerns within the organization. Batherson has two years left on his $4.975 million average annual value contract, and moving him could create room for RFA Fabian Zetterlund, who was acquired from San Jose. With three consecutive 20-goal seasons under his belt, Batherson remains an appealing trade asset.
Amidst the strategic maneuvering, the Senators also secured some internal commitments by re-signing defenseman Tyler Kleven to a two-year deal worth $3.2 million. The 22-year-old showed promise in his first full NHL season—playing 79 games, scoring 10 points, and contributing two assists in six playoff outings.
As the Senators navigate this pivotal offseason, their next moves could not only reshape the roster but also set the tone for their aspirations in the coming seasons. The clock is ticking, and for fans in Ottawa, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation as the team looks to build on their newfound momentum.
