The Ottawa Senators’ injury problems took another hit Tuesday night, and this one could push the organization into action.
Forward Warren Foegele exited the game against Vegas with a knee injury after absorbing a hit along the boards from Jeremy Lauzon. Lauzon received a two-minute minor on the play, but the bigger fallout may be what it means for Ottawa’s roster going forward.
There has been no official update yet on how severe Foegele’s injury is, but according to Sens insider Bruce Garrioch, the Senators may need to make a roster move just to keep things moving on their trip.
“The Senators will likely have to recall a forward from their American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville as their trip continues Thursday against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena.”
That much feels straightforward enough. The tougher part is what comes next. Garrioch also floated the possibility that Ottawa could explore the trade market, though that’s hardly a simple fix.
“They need a player who can fit into the top nine and contribute offensively by putting the puck in the net.”
That kind of player is in demand across the league, and that makes any deal expensive. Even if the Senators find someone available, it’s not the kind of move that comes cheap.
For now, Ottawa may simply have to weather another absence and keep digging for answers. There isn’t exactly a flood of teams ready to unload useful forwards, though clubs such as the Vancouver Canucks and Pittsburgh Penguins could be worth watching if they decide to go in another direction this season. The Penguins, in particular, have been linked to Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, but Pittsburgh won’t be taking two seventh-round picks for either one.
That’s the wrinkle for Steve Staios and the front office. Finding a player who is anywhere close to Foegele, or even close to William Eklund, is no easy task. And if the injuries keep piling up and the Senators start slipping, Staios may be forced to look for something more lasting.
Before any of that, Ottawa heads to Los Angeles. A win there would at least help ease some of the pressure hanging over the club, which makes Thursday’s game a significant one for the Senators.
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