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The Ottawa Senators’ trade deadline strategy could hinge on the development of their top prospect, potentially precluding a big deal.
The Ottawa Senators are heading into this season’s trade deadline in a bit of a tough spot. The club believes it can still make the playoffs. Insider David Pagnotta noted that the Senators remain committed to adding and improving their roster.
By the same token, those additions and improvements could depend on how the team’s top prospect works out in the end. That prospect is defenseman Carter Yakemchuk. Yakemchuk was the seventh overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. The Senators selected him to eventually become Jake Sanderson’s defense partner.
As Yakemchuk declared in an interview with insider Marco D’Amico, he’s working towards that end.
“I was drafted to be that guy on the right side, and that’s what I’m working towards.”
That situation could drastically alter the Senators’ trade deadline strategy. Instead of swinging for the fences, the Sens could focus on making other meaningful additions.
For instance, the Sens’ purported pursuit of Rasmus Andersson, as brief as it was, could become unnecessary if Yakemchuk lives up to expectations. The Senators will likely give the 20-year-old a look before the trade deadline.
If Yakemchuk can translate the success he’s had with the Belleville Senators this season, the big club might back off its search for another high-end blueliner.
Yakemchuk Believes He Can Help Senators Make Playoffs
Having Yakemchuk and his winning attitude in the fold is a major boost to the team. The right-shot blueliner had this to say about his influence on the team:
“I think I can help get us into a playoff spot by continuing to play my style and get used to the pacing and physical play. I know what I can bring, and I think there’s more to come.”
While he may not become a dominant force now, there’s no doubt Yakemhuck has the talent to become a big factor for the Senators in the near future.
The key will be for the rising star to focus on working hard. Yakemchuk admitted his goal is to play with Sanderson at some point. While that’s a long-term goal, it won’t distract him from his daily routine. It’s that routine that has gotten him as far as he has so far.
Ottawa Won’t Compromise Future at Deadline
The focus for the Senators at this year’s trade deadline will be to avoid compromising the team’s future for the sake of a short-term fix. There’s always the temptation to cash in young pieces in hopes of accelerating the team’s competitive window.
But that’s not something the Senators will be looking to do. If anything, the club will be looking to add meaningful pieces without surrendering useful futures. As such, parting with a rising star like Carter Yakemchuk will be one of the last things on the Senators’ minds.
That’s why this year’s trade deadline will be a challenging one. The club will be looking to bolster its chances to get back into the postseason without giving up crucial pieces. It will be a fine needle to thread, but Senators fans hope GM Steve Staios can pull it off.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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