As the NHL gears up post-Olympic break and the trade deadline looms, the Ottawa Senators find themselves in a pivotal position. They're six points shy of the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, which is currently occupied by their divisional rivals, the Boston Bruins. This scenario sets the stage for some intriguing moves.
The Senators are keen on bolstering their defense, particularly the right side. The focus is on upgrading from Nick Jensen in their Top 4.
Jensen, now 35 and recovering from offseason hip surgery, is in the last year of his $4.05 million contract, which notably lacks a trade clause. This flexibility could be advantageous for the Senators as they explore trade options.
Jensen has put up 15 points across 54 games this season, but his minus-10 rating raises questions about his current impact. Nonetheless, veteran right-side defensemen are always in demand for playoff-bound teams.
Trading Jensen could open doors to acquiring a more impactful player, potentially involving prospects like Carter Yakemchuk or Logan Hensler.
Enter MacKenzie Weegar, the Calgary Flames' right-handed defenseman who has caught Ottawa's eye. At 32, Weegar is in the third year of a hefty eight-year contract with a $6.25 million cap hit and a full no-trade clause.
However, there's speculation he might waive it for a chance to play for his hometown team. Weegar has notched 20 points in 56 games this season, though his minus-32 rating reflects Calgary's broader struggles.
Weegar's blend of veteran savvy, offensive flair, and physical presence makes him a tantalizing target for the Senators. His contract aligns well with Ottawa's competitive timeline, but the Flames' asking price is steep: a top draft pick and a high-end prospect or NHL roster player. Fortunately, Ottawa has the cap space to make this work, pending Weegar's approval.
Alternatively, the Senators could consider giving Carter Yakemchuk a shot. Drafted 7th in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Yakemchuk impressed during the preseason. Although he started the season in the AHL with the Belleville Senators, where he tallied 25 points in 41 games, his recent recall post-Olympic break signals a potential NHL opportunity.
The Senators have some intriguing decisions ahead, and the moves they make could significantly impact their playoff aspirations.