Senators Rumors: 2 Players Becoming Trade Candidates To Help Alleviate Cap Trouble


The Ottawa Senators are facing a cap space crunch following their recent signing of Vladimir Tarasenko.

To secure restricted free-agent center Shane Pinto's future with the team, they must explore cost-cutting options, considering trades for defenseman Erik Brannstrom and goaltender Anton Forsberg.

Both players' contracts have emerged as potential trade candidates that could alleviate the team's salary cap troubles.

Moving Brannstrom and Forsberg would not only free up much-needed cap room but also provide assets that could address other roster needs.

Brannstrom, the former first-rounder, had a nice season last year, recording two goals and 18 points with a +5 plus/minus rating across 74 games.

The 30-year-old Forsberg had a very good season in 2021-22, but dipped a little last season, recording a .902 save percentage, 3.26 GAA, with an 11-11-2 record across 28 games and 25 starts.

The Senators' management is carefully weighing the trade options to ensure they make the best decisions for the team's long-term success while navigating the salary cap constraints.

As trade talks unfold, the team remains committed to finding a balance between immediate cap relief and maintaining a competitive and balanced roster.

Ultimately, the decision to trade these players will impact the team's financial flexibility and ability to re-sign key players like Pinto.

The Senators are determined to secure their future success and position themselves for continued competitiveness in the NHL while making strategic moves to navigate the salary cap challenges. Photo Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports