Senators Rumors: Ottawa Tried To Trade 3 Players At The Draft

The Ottawa Senators were actively dealing in trade discussions during the NHL Draft in Las Vegas, attempting to move key players Jakob Chychrun, Mathieu Joseph, and Jacob Bernard-Docker, according to Bruce Garrioch of The Ottawa Sun. 

Despite their efforts, the Senators could not finalize any deals for these players. 

GM Steve Staios sought to gain draft picks in exchange for Joseph and Bernard-Docker, while also exploring potential offers for Chychrun. However, no suitable takers emerged, leaving all three players on the roster as the draft concluded.

This past season, Chychrun put up 14 goals and 27 assists for 41 total points over 82 games played, along with a -30 plus/minus rating and 154 blocked shots.

The #Sens continue to try trade. Usual names: Mathieu Joseph, Jakob Chychrun, Erik Brannstrom and Jacob Bernard-Docker.

— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) June 29, 2024

This setback leaves the Senators with limited salary-cap space, complicating their offseason plans. 

With only $11.5 million available, they face challenges in retaining key players and making new acquisitions. 

A crucial decision looms regarding restricted free agent Erik Brannstrom, who requires a $2 million qualifying offer by Sunday to retain his rights. 

Some league executives suggest Ottawa might let Brannstrom become an unrestricted free agent unless he agrees to a pay cut, which would free up additional cap space.

The 27-year-old Joseph put up the best offensive numbers of his career this past year, recording 11 goals and 35 total points across 72 games played.

The 24-year-old Bernard-Docker played in 72 games with Ottawa this season, putting up four goals, 14 total points, a -7 plus/minus rating, 156 blocked shots, and 62 hits.

The Senators need to fill gaps in their forward lines and have multiple moves they are reportedly considering in free agency. 

Photo Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports