“Staios and Senators: Key Direction Decided in Seven to Ten Games”
The Ottawa Senators find themselves at the bottom of the Atlantic Division but are only six points away from a playoff spot. Steve Staios, the team’s president and general manager, faces a critical decision. Should he push for a playoff run or focus on the future, given the team’s inconsistent performances in recent weeks?
According to TSN reporter Darren Dreger, Staios is using the upcoming series of games to evaluate the team’s direction before the March 6 trade deadline. Despite struggling to match last season’s impressive total of 97 points in the 2025-2026 season, the Senators still have a chance to reach the playoffs with nearly half of their regular season schedule left to play.
Evaluation Period for Staios
How much time does Staios have to assess his team’s trajectory? Dreger suggests a span of seven to ten games. He remarked on the unique opportunity this period presents for Staios to observe Western Conference teams, particularly with the Vancouver Canucks and Ottawa facing off soon.
Recent Performance
- The Senators recently defeated the Canucks 2-1.
- Goalkeeper Leevi Merilainen made 19 saves on 20 shots during the match.
Potential Trade Targets
Dreger noted that Staios might consider acquiring Kiefer Sherwood. Currently, Sherwood is a restricted free agent for the Vancouver Canucks, and his name has circulated in trade talks for some time. However, for any trade to gain momentum, the Senators must prioritize returning to playoff contention.
- Sherwood is recovering from an undisclosed injury and missed the last two games.
- This season, he has recorded 17 goals and six assists in 44 games.
- Sherwood averages 17:32 minutes of ice time per game.
- He is in the final year of a two-year contract worth $3 million, earning $1.5 million annually.
Other Canucks Players in Trade Talks
The Canucks management has reached out to other NHL general managers, expressing their willingness to trade unrestricted free agents, including Sherwood, Evander Kane, and Teddy Blueger.
- Blueger has missed most of the season due to a lower body injury.
- Kane has recorded seven goals and 21 points in 45 games.
In summary, the Senators are navigating a pivotal moment in their season, with key decisions looming in the next seven to ten games. Staios’s strategies could shape the team’s future as they seek to reclaim their playoff aspirations.
