The Ottawa Senators remain a perplexing case: a team with all the tools for contention that consistently falls short. Even captain Brady Tkachuk’s leadership hasn’t been enough to transform their potential into consistent winning results.
However, as they continue to struggle for playoff positioning, rumors have swirled linking Tkachuk to multiple trade destinations. Amid the speculation, GM Steve Staios has now made the franchise’s position clear regarding his captain’s future in Ottawa.
Senators GM Makes It Clear That Brady Tkachuk Is Here To Stay in Ottawa
Since joining the Senators in 2018, Tkachuk has helped elevate the franchise from the league’s bottom half to a team brimming with potential. While the club took a crucial step forward by finally reaching the playoffs last season, its journey is far from over.
Amid the speculation, fan whispers have grown about Tkachuk potentially seeking a trade to a championship contender. The Florida Panthers have emerged as a logical favorite, as they have already won two Stanley Cups with Tkachuk’s brother, Matthew Tkachuk.
But in a recent interview with Sportsnet, GM Staios cleared all rumors about a potential move. When asked if the Senators’ contention window is tied to Tkachuk’s remaining three years with the franchise, Staios simply replied, “Brady’s Brady.”
He continued, “He’s the ultimate driver, and he continues to get better. And it’s been really impressive to watch not only his game grow, but he is always a good leader, so just to watch his leadership grow.” The Senators’ GM firmly believes that the forward will get even better.
“And as far as the window, like I’m hoping, the window (with Brady) is a lot longer than (three years),” he said. But Staios also understands that there are areas of improvement that the Senators should be focusing on.
According to him, internal growth is as important for players as external skills are. “I have belief and faith that each individual will get better. And I’m not just talking about that core group of players, because they certainly have it,” Staios said.
He mentioned how players like Claude Giroux and David Perron came into camp. Staios continued, “You can get better at any age. I certainly feel like we have the right coach and coaching staff to do that. Travis has a history of getting the most out of individuals as well.”
However, while the Senators’ GM firmly believes that Tkachuk is here to stay and will continue to be part of the roster, many insiders don’t agree. Jeff Marek from The Daily Faceoff believes that a Tkachuk trade might still loom around the corner.
