The Ottawa Senators enter the summer searching for ways to strengthen their forward group after another year of progress that ended with an early exit from the playoffs. As speculation intensifies around the group, one high-profile name has surfaced as a possible fit for the team’s top-six needs.
The connection generated plenty of discussion because of the player’s offensive skill set and long-term value. However, with more information emerging, the possibility of a blockbuster move appears to be far less realistic.
Mathew Barzal Appears Out of Reach Despite Early Senators Trade Speculation
Mathew Barzal became a top player in offseason trade rumors after an early June report suggested the New York Islanders could be evaluating the market for the star forward.
The report created intrigue around several teams, including Ottawa, which has been linked to potential upgrades down the middle and within its top-six group.
In his June 2 column, Ottawa Citizen insider Bruce Garrioch reported, “A league executive told The Citizen that the New York Islanders are exploring the market for forward Mathew Barzal. The club would like to clear some cap space, but it’s a big financial commitment with five years left at $9.15 million through 2030-31.”
This report fueled immediate speculation because Barzal remains one of the Islanders’ most important offensive players.
The 28-year-old is under contract on an 8-year, $73.2 million deal. For Ottawa, adding a player of that caliber would provide another elite playmaker alongside Tim Stützle and Brady Tkachuk.
Still, several obstacles have emerged.
Beyond the financial commitment, Barzal holds a 22-team modified no-trade clause that could complicate any potential move. The Islanders also face a difficult balancing act. While new general manager Mathieu Darche is reportedly examining every option available to improve roster flexibility, moving the team’s top offensive weapon would create another major hole in the lineup.
Recent comments from insider Marco D’Amico further cooled expectations surrounding any Barzal-to-Ottawa scenario. Speaking on The Starr & D’Amico Show, D’Amico pushed back on the growing speculation.
“Mathew Barzal is not being shopped. They’re listening on everything on Long Island with Mathieu Darche, but he’s not being shopped,” D’Amico said.
He went even further by explaining that the player himself has little interest in leaving.
“And from what I was told, he doesn’t want to go anywhere. So, pipe dream out the window there too,” D’Amico added.
These remarks significantly change the conversation. What initially appeared to be a potential trade target now looks more like a case of routine due diligence from a front office willing to listen to calls.
Barzal’s recent performance also explains why the Islanders would be reluctant to move him. He recorded 72 points in 81 games during the 2025-26 season and remained the driving force behind much of New York’s offense.
He led the team in points and assists and continued to play a major leadership role within the organization.
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For Ottawa, the latest piece of reporting suggests that hopes of acquiring Barzal may not turn into a reality. Unless circumstances change dramatically, the Senators will likely need to continue their search elsewhere for a major top-six addition.
