The Ottawa Senators and hometown hero Claude Giroux appear to be on the same page, and that page involves keeping the skilled forward in the nation’s capital to potentially cap off a storied NHL career. As an avid follower of the league and its player movements, the smoke signals coming out of Ottawa suggest a deal is not just hoped for, but expected.
Senators and Giroux Camp to Meet Face-to-Face
According to respected Senators insider Bruce Garrioch, the serious business of contract negotiations is set to commence next week. Representatives from the Senators and Giroux’s camp will reportedly sit down for face-to-face discussions. This is a significant step, moving beyond preliminary talks and into a phase where a deal could realistically be hammered out. Giroux, now 37, is an unrestricted free agent come July 1st, and the mutual interest is palpable. He wants to stay, and the Senators clearly value what he brings to the ice and the locker room. This isn’t a player looking for one last big payday on the open market; this is about a veteran presence finding the right fit to conclude his playing days, ideally in a city he has strong ties to.
The financial framework being discussed, as per Garrioch’s sources, seems quite reasonable for a player of Giroux’s calibre and age. We’re likely looking at a base salary in the $3 million range, with performance bonuses that could elevate the total earnings to somewhere between $4.5 million and $5 million. This structure makes a lot of sense for both parties. The Senators get a high-IQ player at a manageable base cap hit, while Giroux has the opportunity to earn more based on his contributions – something I fully expect him to do given his consistent performance. The primary sticking point, if any, might be the term: will it be a one-year deal, offering flexibility, or a two-year pact, providing Giroux with a bit more security as he approaches retirement?
Why a Giroux Extension Makes Perfect Sense for Ottawa
From my perspective, failing to secure an extension with Giroux would be a misstep for the Senators. While his offensive production isn’t what it was in his prime Philadelphia years (he posted a respectable 15 goals and 35 assists for 50 points in 81 games this past season), his value extends far beyond the scoresheet. Giroux brings an immeasurable wealth of experience, a high hockey IQ that’s evident every time he steps on the ice, and crucial leadership qualities to a Senators team that is still navigating its ascent to consistent contender status.
He’s a mentor to the younger core, a reliable presence in key situations – including being one of the league’s best in the faceoff circle (a remarkable 61.5% win rate last season) – and a player who clearly still possesses the drive and passion to compete at a high level. For a team looking to take that next step, having a veteran like Giroux, who has seen it all and still performs effectively, is invaluable. The suggested contract numbers reflect a player who understands his current role and market value, and a team that recognizes the multifaceted contributions he offers.
My Take: I’ll be surprised if they don’t get a deal done. Giroux is eager to complete his career in Ottawa, and the Senators appreciate his skills, experience, and leadership. The desire from both sides is strong, and the reported financial parameters seem like a fair middle ground. This isn’t a contentious negotiation; it’s about finding the right terms for a partnership that has already proven beneficial. Expect an announcement in the coming weeks. The focus on “Claude Giroux news” will soon shift from “will they?” to “when will they announce it?”.
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