The Ottawa Senators are in full-on buy mode as the trade deadline looms, and it’s clear they believe a playoff push is still within reach. While a lot of teams are content to sit tight or make small moves, Ottawa seems ready to shake things up—but what exactly are they hunting for, and what are they avoiding?
The Senators Are Hunting for Upgrades.
Let’s start with what they want. GM Steve Staios is looking for pieces that can make a real difference. That usually means a top-six winger who can score or create chances, and a right-shot defenseman who can hold his own on the top pair. The Senators believe they’re closer to a postseason spot than the standings suggest, and with roughly 25 games left after the Olympic break, the right additions could push them over the line.
Rumour has it they’ve been watching players like MacKenzie Weegar from Calgary. He’s the kind of defenseman who can calm things down in the back end and take on tough minutes. But, he’s not cheap. Everyone wants players like him, and Ottawa will have to weigh the cost carefully.
What the Senators Are Not Putting on the Table.
At the same time, Ottawa isn’t looking to dismantle its core. They’ve had nights where everything clicks, even if consistency has been a problem. Goaltending remains a challenge, and they don’t want to make moves that leave new holes in their lineup. The focus is strictly on adding, not subtracting. Staios is busy calling around, trying to figure out which teams are ready to deal and what pieces might realistically be available before the March 6 deadline.
Timing Is Everything for the Senators.
The Olympic break actually works in their favour. It’s a pause that lets management assess the market, see who’s in selling mode, and figure out where opportunities exist. In a tight wild-card race, timing matters. The Senators need to strengthen their lineup without rushing into a deal that could backfire.
The Senators’ Bottom Line.
Ottawa’s approach is smart, measured, and focused. The goal is to make impactful trades that lift the top lines without weakening the foundation they already have. If they hit the right notes, a playoff push is entirely possible. For Sens fans, the next few weeks promise plenty of excitement—and it sounds like Staios and his team are ready to make the moves that could finally push Ottawa back into contention.