The Ottawa Senators are making calculated moves in the NHL trade chaos. According to Jeff Marek, the team is seeking experienced players while thoroughly assessing the value of their rising stars. In the newest 32 Thoughts podcast, he mentioned that the Senators are carefully altering their team with an emphasis on experience and potential.
According to insider Elliotte Friedman, the Senators have a list of "untouchables," a group that includes key players such as Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson. These rising stars are deemed essential to the team's future success, and the management is not in a rush to make any significant moves involving them.
Despite the presence of "untouchables," there have been whispers surrounding players like Jakob Chychrun. However, Friedman suggests that General Manager Steve Staios is not eager to dive into a major transaction hastily.
Ottawa Senators shake up goaltending dynamics with new coaching addition
To address their struggling goaltending situation, the Ottawa Senators have opted for a change behind the scenes. Following the recent firing of head coach D.J. Smith, the team has reassigned goalie coach Zac Bierk to a scouting and development role.
Bierk, who took on the position in 2021 intending to assist then-struggling goalie Matt Murray, couldn't spark a turnaround for the netminders during his tenure.
With Joonas Korpisalo sporting an 8-15 record and a 3.70 goals against average, and Anton Forsberg at 7-8 with a 3.35 goals against average, the Senators have decided it's time for a fresh perspective.
Enter Justin Peters, a 37-year-old former NHL goaltender with 83 games under his belt. Peters spent the last three-plus seasons as Belleville's goaltending coach, showcasing a wealth of experience that the Senators hope will bring stability to their goaltending unit.
Steve Staios believes Peters' ace leadership and friendly nature will boost the team in need. With Ottawa needing a new groove, it's hoped that Peters will bring steadiness to lighten the tough season.