The Ottawa Senators are looking to keep Nick Cousins as part of their plans for the upcoming season. Although the team made the National Hockey League playoffs for the second consecutive year this spring, they were swept in the first round by the Carolina Hurricanes. Despite this early exit, the organization is not planning major changes heading into the 2026-27 campaign.
The Senators have communicated to Cousins' representatives at Toronto-based Newport Sports that they want the veteran winger back next season. Discussions are expected to begin this week at the NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo. With unrestricted free agency looming on July 1, both sides are optimistic about reaching an agreement. Cousins' priority is reportedly to remain with Ottawa.
Cousins, 32, is represented by Craig Oster of Newport Sports. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent, but Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios is believed to want to retain the feisty winger. After earning $825,000 US last season, his second with the Senators, the Belleville native has carved out a significant role under coach Travis Green. Used mainly on the third and fourth lines, Cousins has become an important contributor, particularly in a shutdown role. He finished the season with nine goals, 14 assists, and 23 points, just four shy of his career-high 27 points. He posted a plus-eight rating and registered 169 hits, second on the Senators behind Dylan Cozens (250 hits).
Cousins has also become a key veteran presence in the locker room and is known for getting under opponents' skin. Last year, he was voted by NHL players as having the most punchable face. A 13-year NHL veteran, Cousins has played for Philadelphia, Arizona, Montreal, Vegas, Nashville, and Florida, winning a Stanley Cup with the Panthers in 2024 before signing with Ottawa as a free agent in August 2024.
Giroux Remains a Priority
Cousins is one of several unrestricted free agents Staios must address this offseason. Veteran winger Claude Giroux, 38, plans to return for another season, according to his agent Pat Brisson. Brisson and Staios are expected to meet at the Combine to discuss a new deal. Giroux, who recently scored a hole-in-one at the Marshes Golf Club in Kanata, has made staying with Ottawa a priority. He signed with the Senators as a free agent in July 2022 under former GM Pierre Dorion.
Reimer's Future Uncertain
Backup goaltender James Reimer is also pondering his future. The Senators have several decisions to make as they look to build on their playoff appearance and contend for a deeper run next season.
