NHL Trade Deadline Countdown: Ottawa Senators' Pursuit of Defensemen and Forwards
As the 2026 Winter Olympic Games come to a close, the focus shifts to the NHL trade deadline. With only 11 days left until the deadline, teams are looking to make moves to bolster their rosters for the playoff push. The Ottawa Senators, currently six points out of a playoff spot, are rumored to be in the market for a right-shot defenseman and a top-six forward. General Manager Steve Staios is working the market to see if the Senators can make a move before the deadline.
The market for right-shot defensemen is thin, and prices are high for teams looking to make a move. The Senators have shown interest in Calgary defenseman MacKenzie Weegar and Zach Whitecloud. Other teams, including the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, and Buffalo Sabres, are also in the market for a right-shot blueliner. The Flames are reportedly seeking a top draft pick and a high-end prospect or roster player for Weegar.
In addition to Weegar, other defensemen like Brandon Carlo, Doug Hamilton, Connor Murphy, Justin Faulk, and Colton Parayko are also rumored to be available. The Senators will need to carefully consider their options and evaluate what it would take to acquire a top defenseman before the deadline.
Staios opted not to make any moves before the roster freeze to evaluate the roster and determine the best course of action moving forward. The Senators will need to win a significant number of their remaining games to make a serious push for a playoff spot. If they fall out of contention, Staios will have to make decisions on the team's potential unrestricted free agents and consider potential roster changes.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Senators will need to carefully assess their options and make strategic moves to improve their roster for the remainder of the season. The next few weeks will be crucial for the team as they look to make a push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.