Connor Hellebuyck to Florida? Lundell is a sticking point.
There’s speculation that Florida Panthers could be a potential destination for Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. However, any deal would likely require Anton Lundell to be part of the package, a move the Panthers are reportedly unwilling to make. This would satisfy Winnipeg’s need for a center, but Florida’s reluctance to trade Lundell presents a significant hurdle.
Senators and Canadiens reportedly interested in Rasmus Ristolainen.
Reports suggest that the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens are among the teams that have inquired about Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. The Flyers are reportedly exploring various options, and both Ottawa and Montreal have shown interest in the defenseman.
Ottawa Senators’ Offseason Priorities and Potential Targets.
The Ottawa Senators are prioritizing several key acquisitions this offseason: a top-six forward to complement Tim Stutzle, a top-four right-handed defenseman to pair with Thomas Chabot, and a reliable backup goaltender capable of playing at least 35 games. The Senators may consider trading defenseman Jordan Spence. Forward Fabian Zetterlund, with three years remaining on his contract at $4.275 million annually, could also be available. Given the team’s less robust prospect pool, prospects like Carter Yakemchuk are unlikely to be traded, though teams have inquired. Stephen Halliday has been re-signed and could fill a fourth-line center role.
Potential Trade Targets for the Senators:
- Mason McTavish (C, Anaheim Ducks): Seen as a potential good fit for the Senators.
- Jake DeBrusk (LW, Vancouver Canucks): Possesses five years remaining on his contract at $5.5 million per season, offering power-play ability and strong work ethic.
- Jordan Kyrou (W, St. Louis Blues): It’s unlikely he would waive his no-movement clause for Ottawa. The Seattle Kraken, Calgary Flames, and New York Islanders are believed to have interest.
Defensive Targets:
The Senators might explore re-engaging in discussions for Rasmus Ristolainen. Additionally, there’s speculation about potential interest in pending unrestricted free agent Connor Murphy.
Roster Decisions:
The Senators may decide not to qualify goaltender Leevi Merilainen.
Contract Renewals and Discussions:
Informal talks are reportedly underway with Artem Zub regarding an extension. Negotiations are also believed to be ongoing with pending unrestricted free agents Claude Giroux and Nick Cousins.
English Translation:
Connor Hellebuyck to Florida? Lundell is a sticking point.
There’s speculation that the Florida Panthers could be a potential fit for Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. However, it’s reported that Anton Lundell would need to be included in such a deal to satisfy Winnipeg’s need at center ice. The Panthers reportedly have no interest in trading Lundell.
Senators and Canadiens reportedly interested in Rasmus Ristolainen.
Elliotte Friedman has indicated that teams have spoken with the Philadelphia Flyers about defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. He also mentioned that Ottawa had significant interest in Ristolainen and that Montreal is another team to watch in this regard.
Ottawa Senators’ Offseason Priorities and Potential Targets.
The Ottawa Senators’ primary objectives this offseason include acquiring a top-six forward to play alongside Tim Stutzle, a top-four right-handed defenseman to partner with Thomas Chabot, and a backup goaltender capable of handling at least 35 games. The Senators are open to trading defenseman Jordan Spence. Forward Fabian Zetterlund, who has three years left on his contract at $4.275 million per season, could also become available. The Senators’ prospect pool is not considered deep, and while teams have inquired about Carter Yakemchuk, he is expected to start the season with the team. Stephen Halliday has been re-signed and might fill the role of fourth-line center.
Potential Trade Targets for the Senators:
- Mason McTavish (C, Anaheim Ducks): Could be a suitable acquisition for the Senators.
- Jake DeBrusk (LW, Vancouver Canucks): Has five years remaining on his contract at $5.5 million annually and provides value on the power play and with his hustle.
- Jordan Kyrou (W, St. Louis Blues): It is believed he would not waive his no-movement clause to join Ottawa. The Seattle Kraken, Calgary Flames, and New York Islanders are reportedly interested.
Defensive Targets:
The Senators might reconsider discussions with the Flyers regarding Rasmus Ristolainen. Additionally, there are suggestions that they might have an interest in pending unrestricted free agent Connor Murphy.
Roster Decisions:
The Senators may not extend a qualifying offer to goaltender Leevi Merilainen.
Contract Renewals and Discussions:
It is understood that the Senators have engaged in informal talks with Artem Zub about a contract extension. Discussions are also reportedly ongoing with pending unrestricted free agents Claude Giroux and Nick Cousins.
