Senators GM Steve Staios Takes Patient Approach Ahead of NHL Trade Deadline
Ottawa Senators President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Steve Staios finds himself in a position where patience may be his greatest asset as the National Hockey League trade deadline approaches. With only four games remaining before the league's break for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Italy, Staios has the luxury of time to make calculated decisions about his team's future.
Evaluating Options in a Tight Playoff Race
The Senators currently sit 10 points out of the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, creating a challenging but not impossible path to postseason play. While some might expect Staios to begin selling off assets ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, league executives report that the general manager is keeping all options open as he evaluates his team's position.
Recent back-to-back victories over the Vegas Golden Knights (7-1) and Colorado Avalanche (5-2) have provided momentum that suggests the Senators shouldn't rush to judgment about their playoff chances. With 29 games remaining and four teams separating Ottawa from a postseason berth, Staios appears committed to using the upcoming Olympic break as a natural evaluation period before making any significant roster moves.
Strategic Scouting for Key Positions
According to league sources, Staios has been actively scouring the market for specific talent that could bolster the Senators' lineup. His primary targets reportedly include a top-four defenceman and a top-six forward, positions that could significantly impact the team's ability to climb back into playoff contention.
The general manager has been working the phones consistently, maintaining communication with other teams while expressing continued confidence in his current roster. This balanced approach suggests Staios recognizes both the team's potential and its areas for improvement as he navigates the complex trade landscape.
Olympic Break Provides Natural Decision Point
The upcoming three-week Olympic break offers Staios and the Senators organization a valuable window for assessment. Contrary to initial speculation that the break would serve as an unofficial trade deadline, league executives now believe most significant moves will occur after teams return to action in late February.
"Teams have three weeks during the Olympics to take stock of where they're at," one league executive told media sources. "I do think we're going to see a flurry of moves after the break."
This timeline works to Ottawa's advantage, providing additional evaluation time while other teams determine their own positions as buyers or sellers in the trade market.
Addressing Goaltending and Market Dynamics
One area of particular focus for the Senators has been goaltending, which has presented challenges throughout the season. The anticipated return of Linus Ullmark from personal leave, combined with solid performances from veteran James Reimer, could significantly strengthen Ottawa's position between the pipes.
Market dynamics also favor a patient approach, with several teams already positioning themselves as sellers. The New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, and St. Louis Blues are among those reportedly looking to move assets, while other clubs like the Winnipeg Jets, Chicago Blackhawks, and Nashville Predators remain undecided about their trade deadline strategies.
As the clock ticks toward March 6, Steve Staios's measured approach reflects a general manager who understands that strategic timing can be as important as the trades themselves. With multiple factors in play—from playoff mathematics to roster chemistry and market availability—the Senators' leadership appears committed to making decisions based on comprehensive evaluation rather than premature reaction.
