The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and the rumor mill is churning at full speed. For the first time in what feels like forever, the Ottawa Senators are poised to be buyers, not sellers, and General Manager Steve Staios is reportedly exploring all options to bolster the team’s forward depth. Whispers around the league suggest the Sens have their sights set on a pair of Seattle Kraken forwards: the dynamic Jared McCann and the versatile Yanni Gourde.
Analyzing the Potential Impact of McCann and Gourde on the Ottawa Senators
This potential acquisition would signal a significant shift in Ottawa’s strategy, indicating a strong belief in the current core and a desire to make a push for the playoffs. The Senators have struggled with consistent scoring beyond their top line, and both McCann and Gourde would bring much-needed offensive firepower and experience to the middle six.
The rumored trade, while still speculative, is generating considerable buzz:
Ottawa Senators receive: Jared McCann, Yanni Gourde (50% retained salary by the Kraken)
Seattle Kraken receive: Ridly Greig, David Perron, Anton Forsberg, 2025 first-round pick
This is a hefty price to pay, but it underscores the Senators’ commitment to improving. Losing a promising young player like Greig, a veteran presence like Perron, and a solid goaltender like Forsberg stings, but the potential reward of adding McCann and Gourde could be worth the risk. The Kraken, in return, would acquire valuable assets for their retool, including a future first-rounder.
So, how would these additions impact the Senators’ lineup? Here’s a look at a potential configuration:
Projected Senators Lines After the McCann and Gourde Trade:
- Second Line: Jared McCann – Josh Norris – Drake Batherson
- Third Line: Yanni Gourde – Shane Pinto – Michael Amadio
This revamped forward group would provide head coach Travis Green with a much more balanced attack. McCann’s scoring prowess would be a perfect complement to Norris and Batherson, creating a formidable second line. Gourde’s two-way play and leadership would solidify the third line, adding grit and experience alongside Pinto and Amadio.
The key to this trade, as with any major transaction, lies in the details. The Kraken retaining 50% of Gourde’s salary is a crucial factor, making the deal more palatable for the Senators from a cap perspective. However, the loss of Forsberg creates a question mark in net. While the Senators have confidence in Linus Ullmark, Forsberg’s consistency will be missed.
The potential acquisition of McCann and Gourde would represent a bold move by the Ottawa Senators, signaling their intent to make a playoff run. It’s a gamble, but one that could pay off handsomely if these players live up to expectations. This is a situation worth monitoring closely as the trade deadline approaches. The Ottawa Senators rumors are swirling, and this could be the biggest splash of them all.
Finding the Latest Ottawa Senators News, NHL Trade Rumors, and Game Info
Stay up-to-date on all the latest Ottawa Senators news, NHL trade rumors, and find out what channel the Senators game is on TV today by visiting nhltraderumor.com. Add us to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletter below!
