3 Ottawa Senators Not Expected Back Next Season

 

The Ottawa Senators have disappointed this season after a flurry of moves last summer. Management was aggressive and did whatever they could to upgrade the roster on paper, unfortunately, you have to perform on the ice to win points. The Sens are now a team to watch ahead of the March 3 trade deadline as their expected to make multiple trades. One thing we do know, don't expect to see these three Senators back next season:

Cam Talbot

Talbot is being discussed in trade talks this season and as a pending free agent, is likely soon to be done in Ottawa. He's performed well in his first season with the franchise, however there's a number of free agents available next summer in net, and the Sens will sign another netminder to fill Talbot's skates in 2023-24. Frederik Andersen is a name to watch here.

Nikita Zaitsev

The Senators have offered teams a second-round pick to take Zaitsev off their hands this season, but so far, no takers. The Russian defenseman is signed for next season at $4.5 million, however if the team can't get a trade finalized before March 3, expect to see Zaitsev bought out next summer.

Austin Watson

Watson is a pending free agent, making $1.5 million against the cap this season. He's recorded six points in 39 games this season and is known for being a checking winger who loves to play an in-your-face style. Watson is battled tested for the playoffs and could help a number of team's bottom six. If Watson isn't moved before March 3, expect to see the Sens head in a different direction next season.

Photo credit:  Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports