The Ottawa Senators face many questions as the season winds down, including the right defense depth, goaltending, a new coach and team expectations.
Ottawa Senators GM Steve StaiosAs another disappointing season for the Ottawa Senators winds down, fans and pundits look ahead to the off-season, hoping management can turn this club into a playoff contender next season.
GM Steve Staios drew some flak from The Hockey News' Senators site contributor Pat Maguire regarding his comments last week suggesting high expectations this season were “a bit debilitating for us.” Maguire felt Staios' remarks were ill-timed, confused people and failed to promote stability.
Meanwhile, speculation over Staios' off-season plans continues to churn along.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman caused a stir earlier this month by wondering whether the Senators might attempt to bring back former captain Erik Karlsson. However, the Penguins defenseman wasted little time slapping down that notion.
Maguire wrote Staios and his staff should already have their minds made up regarding the Senators' problems and how to address them. He felt they shouldn't be swayed by any improved performances over the remainder of the season now that there's no pressure to reach the playoffs.
A Postmedia report suggested the Senators' goaltending must improve for next season or nothing will. It's rumored Staios might've “kicked tires” on some goalies before the March trade deadline. With Joonas Korpisalo under contract for four more years, perhaps the Senators will attempt to replace Anton Forsberg with a more reliable backup.
Questions linger regarding their right-side blueline depth. The Senators were believed to be interested in Chris Tanev before he was traded to the Dallas Stars at the trade deadline. They might revisit that interest if he becomes a free agent on July 1.
Meanwhile, Jakob Chychrun's future in Ottawa was also a topic of frequent speculation before the trade deadline. He's got a year remaining on his contract.
Staios and company will also consider their choices for a full-time head coach next season. Options could include former NHL bench bosses like Todd McLellan, Dean Evason or Craig Berube. Hall of Famer and longtime Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson was asked whether he considered pursuing the head coach job, but the assistant coach told reporters he hasn't given it much thought.