The Ottawa Senators are approaching a critical offseason after failing to make the playoffs once again. With elevated expectations unmet during the 2023-24 season, significant changes are necessary for the team to become a legitimate contender. This article examines the biggest needs for the Senators in the upcoming offseason, considering the key areas that require improvement and the potential moves that could be made to enhance the team’s performance.
The Ottawa Senators have been in a rebuild mode since former owner Eugene Melnyk announced it before the 2018-19 season. However, the lack of progress in recent years has led to frustration among fans and players alike. With the Senators being the NHL’s third-youngest team last year, it was expected that they would take a significant step forward. Yet, they finished 13 points out of a wild-card spot, landing second-last in the Atlantic Division. This offseason, the focus should be on retooling the roster to make a playoff push.
Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson are considered the core of the team’s future. These young talents have shown potential, but they need more support to thrive. While their individual development has been a priority, the Senators must now build around them to maximize their potential. Ensuring these players are surrounded by experienced veterans who can mentor and guide them is essential for their growth and the team’s success. This process seems it will continue in the 2024-2025 as the Senators are set to miss the playoffs according to different Betting Sites Canada.
The Senators’ offensive struggles were evident last season, with the team ranking among the worst in several categories, including 5-on-5 offense and power play. Despite having talented forwards like Tkachuk, Stutzle, Shane Pinto, and Ridly Greig, the team failed to convert raw skill into consistent scoring. To address this issue, the Senators need to add experienced forwards who can contribute on both ends of the ice.
One potential target for the Senators is Jake DeBrusk, a pending UFA from the Boston Bruins. DeBrusk is known for his consistent scoring, tallying between 40 to 50 points per season. His hard-nosed style and playoff experience make him an asset for a team looking to add depth and leadership. Acquiring a player like DeBrusk could provide the Senators with the much-needed scoring punch and veteran presence in their lineup.
Defense has been a significant issue for the Senators, who ranked 28th in goals against per game last year, allowing an average of 3.43 goals. The team’s current defensive setup, led by Thomas Chabot and Jakob Chychrun, has not been effective in handling tough matchups. To become more competitive, the Senators must reconfigure their defensive lineup.
The Senators should look to the free-agent market for defensive specialists who can stabilize the back end. Players like Chris Tanev, Brett Pesce, and Matt Roy are examples of “meat-and-potatoes” defensemen who can provide stability and grit. These players are known for their defensive reliability and ability to handle heavy minutes, which would be a significant upgrade for Ottawa’s blue line.
Goaltending remains a glaring issue for the Senators. Joonas Korpisalo, who signed a five-year, $20-million deal, struggled in his first year with Ottawa. Posting a .890 save percentage over a career-high 55 games, Korpisalo did not meet expectations, raising questions about his role moving forward. General Manager Steve Staios has not ruled out a buyout, indicating that changes might be on the horizon.
One solution is pursuing a trade for Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins. Despite being surpassed by Jeremy Swayman, Ullmark is a proven talent, having won the Vezina Trophy in 2023. He could provide the Senators with the goaltending stability they desperately need. With the Senators holding two first-round picks and four fourth-round picks in this year’s NHL (National Hockey League) draft, they have the assets to make a compelling offer if Ullmark is willing to waive his no-trade clause.
While the Senators boast a talented young roster, they lack veteran leadership to guide the team through tough stretches. Claude Giroux has been a steady presence, but he cannot be the only veteran playing significant minutes. To change the culture and improve the team’s resilience, adding more experienced players is necessary.
Veteran players bring more than just skill to the table; they offer mentorship and a steadying influence that can help young players develop. By adding more experienced players, the Senators can create a more balanced locker room dynamic and foster a winning culture. This, in turn, could positively impact the development of their young stars.
The Ottawa Senators face a crucial offseason as they look to end their playoff drought and become contenders. With significant needs on offense, defense, and goaltending, the team must make strategic moves to strengthen its roster. By focusing on adding experienced players, improving defensive play, and addressing goaltending issues, the Senators can take meaningful steps toward achieving their goals. Whether through trades or free-agent signings, the Senators need to make bold decisions to change their trajectory and build a competitive team for the future.
