Senators Rumors: Alex DeBrincat Was "Unhappy With Smaller Role Than Brady Tkachuk" In Ottawa

Alex DeBrincat's departure from the Ottawa Senators this summer was marked by his strong desire for a more prominent role within the team's lineup.

Sources close to the situation revealed that DeBrincat was unhappy with his position as a second-line winger, feeling overshadowed by the team's captain and franchise player, Brady Tkachuk.

This dissatisfaction ultimately led to his trade to the Detroit Red Wings, where he promptly signed a four-year contract with his hometown team.

DeBrincat's arrival in Ottawa had raised expectations of him securing a top-line role alongside Tim Stützle, the team's star center, given his impressive performance with 41 goals and 78 points in the season before the trade.

Alex DeBrincat was reportedly unhappy with being a second-line winger behind Brady Tkachuk, per @SunGarrioch 😳 pic.twitter.com/zqDKWGwQJX

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) September 10, 2023

However, he found himself playing second fiddle to Tkachuk, both in ice time and production, despite slightly more average ice time.

With Tkachuk's outstanding season and captaincy status, the Senators' decision to part ways with DeBrincat seemed almost inevitable.

In Detroit, DeBrincat aims to rediscover his scoring prowess.

While the Red Wings lack a playmaker of Stützle's caliber, captain Dylan Larkin offers promise as an offensive partner. DeBrincat's move reflects the complexities of professional sports, where players seek situations that align with their aspirations and skills, ultimately leading to a change in scenery and a fresh start in Detroit. Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports