Senators GM Steve Staios names possible trade make as NHL trade deadline looms
“We’re looking at the trade deadline as one opportunity to look at our group and see what might be out there on the market that can supplement our group. Maybe change the dynamic a little bit.” – Bruce
The Ottawa Senators made moves on Wednesday, signaling a shift from discussion to action.
Steve Staois, the team’s president of hockey operations and general manager, is rumored to have more transactions in the works before the National Hockey League trade deadline, scheduled for 3 p.m. EST on Friday.
In his inaugural trade deadline experience, Staois kicked off his dealings by trading winger Vladimir Tarasenko to the Florida Panthers for two draft picks on Wednesday morning. He then remained active on the phone from the team’s hotel in Huntington Beach.
Ahead of the Senators’ game against the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on Wednesday night, starting a three-game California tour, Staios expressed his commitment to enhancing the team’s competitiveness.
“I’m as active as anybody, I guess,” Staios shared with TSN 1200’s Gord Wilson on Wednesday. “We’re looking at the trade deadline as one opportunity to assess our roster and explore potential acquisitions that could complement our squad. Perhaps alter the team dynamic slightly.
“So, we’re exploring all options.”
While the Senators are focused on selling, they are also prioritizing a long-term strategy and are seeking players who can contribute positively. Staios has been transparent about his quest for a seasoned forward to support team captain Brady Tkachuk and an additional defenseman.
“It’s challenging because contenders are typically reluctant to part with assets, creating opportunities with non-playoff teams,” Staios explained.
“We evaluate each player and contract to assess how they align with the Ottawa Senators,” Staios added. “If there’s a good fit, we’re open to acquiring players with existing contracts and even exploring short-term options to see how they mesh with our team.”
Staios mentioned that the team is thoroughly examining all aspects, including the goaltending situation. Joonas Korpisalo and Anton Forsberg have struggled for consistency.
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“We’ve seen that we have strong goaltending with proper support in front of them,” Staios noted. “However, we’re addressing the inconsistencies and trying to identify the root causes—whether it’s due to our young roster or the type of players we have. We’re analyzing everything.”
While defenseman Jakob Chychrun has attracted interest from other teams contacting Ottawa, the Senators are not rushing into any trade decisions.
Reports suggest that the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning are among the teams expressing interest in Chychrun.
“We’re receiving significant interest in all our players because we have a talented roster. It’s a challenging time for the players when their names are mentioned in trade talks,” Staios acknowledged. “Regarding Jakob Chychrun, we’re not actively pursuing any deals at the moment. But it’s natural for teams to enquire about a player of his caliber.”
