The Ottawa Senators are poised to turn discussions into decisive action over the next three weeks, setting the stage for the 2026-27 season. According to sources, Steve Staios, the club's president of hockey operations and general manager, has been actively meeting with NHL executives and player agents to explore trade opportunities and potential free-agent signings ahead of the July 1 market opening.
Trade Talks Heating Up
League executives report that conversations intensified during the NHL's annual draft combine in Buffalo last week. While the Stanley Cup final could extend to a Game 7 on June 20, the off-season is already in full swing for 30 of the 32 general managers. The Senators, having made the playoffs for two consecutive springs, do not require a complete overhaul. However, after a first-round sweep by the Carolina Hurricanes, changes are necessary to avoid stagnation.
Priority Positions to Address
The Senators have identified three key areas for improvement:
- Top-six winger: A league executive indicated the Senators are seeking a forward to play alongside top center Tim Stutzle and captain Brady Tkachuk. However, the team has limited assets and is reluctant to part with significant value. Names mentioned include Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues) and Mason McTavish (Anaheim Ducks). Kyrou is considered an unlikely fit, but McTavish is viewed as a realistic target. The Senators have also been linked to Robert Thomas of the Blues, though sources say no talks have occurred regarding him.
- Top-4 right-shot defenseman: Veteran Nick Jensen, who underwent knee surgery, is expected to become an unrestricted free agent and likely test the market. The club must also decide on Jordan Spence, a restricted free agent who played heavy minutes in the playoffs and has arbitration rights. Negotiations with Spence promise to be complex.
- Backup goaltender: Staios emphasized this as a priority at season's end. The Senators are expected to make a qualifying offer to Leevi Merilainen at $1.05 million US by the June 29 deadline. While Merilainen is an option, the team is also monitoring veteran James Reimer's plans. Potential unrestricted free agent targets include Connor Ingram (Utah Mammoth) and Stuart Skinner (Pittsburgh Penguins).
Internal Solutions and Trade Possibilities
In all three cases, internal answers may emerge, as the core group remains intact. The Senators have also explored trade options with the St. Louis Blues, inquiring about defensemen Colton Parayko and Justin Faulk at the March 7 deadline. Parayko could resurface as a trade target this off-season, providing a potential upgrade on the blue line.
The NHL draft, scheduled for June 26-27 at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, will be virtual for the second consecutive year, making the combine the last opportunity for teams to meet face-to-face. With a slim free-agent market, trades are expected to dominate discussions. The Senators, however, cannot trade their No. 32 overall pick. Over the next three weeks, Ottawa aims to lay the groundwork for a stronger 2026-27 campaign.
