Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-IMAGN Images
The Ottawa Senators forward could become an unrestricted free agent next summer, meaning he could be available without any acquisition cost.
According to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen, general manager Steve Staios must reach an extension with Batherson’s agent, Paul Capizzano, before October 3.
If no agreement is signed before the start of the season, Batherson would become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2027.
Such a scenario would open the door for several interested teams, potentially including the Montreal Canadiens, who have been looking for an offensive addition for months.
Drake Batherson’s production and Kent Hughes connection make him a Canadiens free-agent target
Batherson recorded 71 points last season, including 33 goals, strong production that would easily draw interest from other organizations.
It’s worth remembering that Batherson currently earns $4.975 million per season with the Ottawa Senators, a relatively reasonable salary given his production.
Interestingly, the forward is a former client of Kent Hughes from when Hughes worked as an agent before becoming a general manager.
That connection could potentially make discussions easier if Batherson does end up reaching the open market.
The Canadiens, who didn’t make a major splash this summer, could keep a close eye on the situation as the next deadline approaches.
Nothing has been decided yet, as Ottawa still has several weeks to try to reach an agreement with its forward.
It’s a situation worth monitoring for Drake Batherson and the Ottawa Senators, especially with Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens potentially interested in adding him without giving up assets in July.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Drake Batherson could become available for nothing, and his Canadiens connection stands out
Should the Canadiens try to acquire Drake Batherson in 2027?