The Ottawa Senators may have found another potential trade target to bolster their top-six forward group. Two league sources have indicated that the Senators are among several teams showing interest in Vancouver Canucks winger Jake DeBrusk, who has scored 20 or more goals in four of the last five seasons.
DeBrusk's contract and situation
The 29-year-old DeBrusk, who has spent the last two seasons with the Canucks, has five years remaining on a contract that pays him $5.5 million annually. He signed a seven-year, $38.5 million deal with Vancouver in July 2024. However, the Canucks' front office—comprising Daniel and Henrik Sedin along with general manager Ryan Johnson—has decided to undergo a full rebuild, which may make DeBrusk available.
Reports out of Vancouver suggest that DeBrusk is not enthusiastic about being part of a complete teardown. After the NHL trade deadline in March, DeBrusk told Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: "We had a core of guys who were older, and it was always about the Cup. A rebuild is hard for every player, but it's a great opportunity for younger guys. This game humbles everybody, and it's been a little bit more than humbling this year. Obviously, that (rebuild) is not something I would be OK with or accepting."
Senators' off-season priorities
The Senators' off-season priorities include a top-six forward, a top-four right-shot defenceman, and a backup goaltender. President of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios spent considerable time at the NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo last week, meeting with counterparts and player agents to discuss possible roster changes.
In addition to DeBrusk, the Senators have shown interest in Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish and St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou. However, Kyrou is believed to be unwilling to waive his full no-move clause to join Ottawa. The Senators have held talks with the Ducks regarding McTavish, who was a healthy scratch in the playoffs. Staios has a prior relationship with McTavish from their time together with the Ontario Hockey League's Hamilton Bulldogs.
McTavish, 23, has five years left on a contract paying him $7 million per season. Acquiring him would likely require a high price, including a first-round pick and a player who can contribute immediately for Anaheim, though the term and money left on his deal may slightly reduce the asking price.
DeBrusk, if acquired, would provide the Senators with a proven goal-scorer who can slot into their top six. His contract, while substantial, is manageable for a team looking to improve its offensive depth.
