Senators Rumors: Ottawa Looking For Help On Defense
General Manager Steve Staios had already been exploring the market for blue-line depth, but Zub’s injury has made acquiring a reliable defenseman a top priority.
As one league executive observed, “Everybody is looking for defensemen, and there aren’t many available,” speaking on the competitive nature of the current market.
Sidney Crosby typically hosts a Thanksgiving meal at his house for teammates who don't have plans or family in town, which Marcus Pettersson appreciates so much. He said Sid is a good and gracious host, welcomes everyone with open arms, and "you can stay however long you want."
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) November 28, 2024
Potential trade targets include Anaheim’s Cam Fowler, Pittsburgh’s Marcus Pettersson, and Chicago’s Seth Jones, though each option presents challenges.
Fowler, an experienced top-four defenseman with a $6.5 million cap hit through 2025-26, is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury and may be hesitant to move to another rebuilding team.
Pettersson, with a more affordable $4.025 million cap hit, is viewed as an ideal short-term solution, particularly given Senators assistant GM Ryan Bowness’ familiarity with the Penguins.
Meanwhile, Jones, carrying a $9.5 million annual cap hit and a full no-movement clause, is considered an unlikely candidate due to the significant financial commitment required.
Seth Jones’ first goal of the season is an OT game-winner 🚨🚨🚨🚨
— Four Feathers Podcast (@FourFeathersPod) January 20, 2024
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If a trade proves unfeasible, the Senators may turn to internal options like Belleville defensemen Nikolas Mantinpalo or Maxence Guenette, though their inexperience raises questions about their readiness for top-four minutes.
Other rumored targets include Montreal’s Jayden Struble or Columbus prospect David Jiricek, but neither is considered an immediate solution.
Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
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