Evaluating the Ottawa Senators’ Strategic Moves
As the Ottawa Senators’ captain Brady Tkachuk observes his brother Matthew lift the Stanley Cup for the second consecutive year, it prompts an evaluation of the recent strategic moves made by GM Steve Staios. With a focus on building a competitive roster, Staios has actively reshaped the team since the end of last season.
Key Departures and New Additions
The Senators determined that changes were necessary after their playoff exit in the first round against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Key departures included Anton Forsberg, Travis Hamonic, and Adam Gaudette, paving the way for new signings like Lars Eller and trades that brought in promising talents such as Jordan Spence and forward Dylan Cozens. Staios has also added depth with signings like Arthur Kaliyev from the LA Kings and goalie Hunter Shepard, indicating a belief that the current roster has potential for progression.
Future Moves and Competitive Outlook
With nearly $4.3 million remaining in cap space, it appears that Staios is preparing to make additional moves as the trade deadline approaches, which could involve acquiring more talent without compromising future draft picks. The Senators’ positioning suggests a more competitive outlook, especially with the potential to challenge teams like the Maple Leafs. However, their ability to contend with the well-equipped Florida Panthers remains uncertain, given the Panthers’ retention of their elite players.
Strengthening the Defense
One of Staios’s significant focuses has been enhancing the right defense, an area previously seen as a weak link for the Senators. He recently signed Lassi Thomson, a former first-round draft pick, and made another significant investment by selecting Logan Hensler. Adding Jordan Spence to the roster highlights Staios’s commitment to building a robust defense, likely in anticipation of the uncertain recovery timeline of Nick Jensen, who underwent hip surgery earlier this year.
Veteran Presence and Team Dynamics
The retention of veteran Claude Giroux adds experience to the squad, alongside fellow seasoned players like Lars Eller. Staios’s strategy underscores the importance of mentorship within the locker room, as Giroux opted to stay in Ottawa despite having better financial options elsewhere.
Looking Ahead
As the Senators look to elevate their game, the question remains whether Tkachuk will emerge from the shadows of his brother’s success and contribute to what Staios and Giroux hope will be a season of contention rather than mere participation. In a competitive Atlantic Division, the Senators must aim to make significant strides if they hope to challenge for a coveted playoff spot against established powers, including possibly the reigning champion Panthers.
Written by Pat Maguire for The Hockey News.
