The National Hockey League's business season is set to intensify this Sunday as representatives from all 32 teams gather in Buffalo for the annual NHL Combine. With the exception of general managers from the two Stanley Cup finalists, all decision-makers will be present to discuss roster changes for the upcoming season. Among them is Steve Staios, president of hockey operations and general manager of the Ottawa Senators, who will attend as interviews with top draft prospects begin and physical testing concludes next weekend at the LECOM Harbourcenter.
Senators in search of a top-six forward
With the NHL preparing for its second consecutive virtual draft on June 26-27, the combine has gained added significance as the final opportunity before the draft for GMs to meet face-to-face and explore trade scenarios. A league executive told the Ottawa Citizen on Friday that the Senators are actively pursuing a top-six forward capable of playing alongside top center Tim Stutzle. This pursuit is not surprising, as Staios has been trying to fill this need for two years.
The market for such players is limited, and teams holding them demand significant returns, but options exist. One intriguing name that has surfaced is 23-year-old center Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks.
McTavish's challenging season
McTavish is coming off a difficult campaign, recording only 17 goals and 24 assists for 41 points in 75 games. During the playoffs, he was scratched for two games by Ducks coach Joel Quenneville, casting doubt on his future with the organization. Several teams have inquired about his availability.
McTavish has five years remaining on a contract that pays him $7 million U.S. per season through 2030-31. He is linked to the Senators because his father, Dale, was one of Staios's first hires when he took over in Ottawa in 2023, serving in a pro scouting role. While McTavish is a center, he could play on the wing, or head coach Travis Green could move second-line pivot Dylan Cozens to the wing to accommodate him. McTavish, selected third overall in the 2021 draft, has no trade protection.
Interest from other teams
The Philadelphia Flyers and Montreal Canadiens are also believed to have interest in McTavish, as both need help down the middle. However, any suitor, including the Senators, must be willing to pay a high price, likely including a first-round pick and a player who can contribute immediately for the Ducks. The term and salary remaining on McTavish's contract may slightly lower the asking price.
Staios previously acquired McTavish in a trade with the Peterborough Petes while he was GM of Michael Andlauer's Hamilton Bulldogs in the Ontario Hockey League in 2022.
Other potential targets
League executives also indicate that Jordan Kyrou of the St. Louis Blues is available. Kyrou has 178 goals and 200 assists for 378 points in 488 NHL games. However, the Senators would again need to pay a steep price, likely involving a high-end player, a top prospect, and a first-round pick.
