The Ottawa Senators are reportedly in the market for top-six forward help this summer. While GM Steve Staios has been busy working the phones, the rumor mill is spinning with some massive names. However, now we know that one high-profile target can already be crossed off the list.
According to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen, the Senators have a level of interest in adding a dynamic offensive weapon like Jordan Kyrou from the St. Louis Blues. However, making a trade happen is a complete long shot. As Garrioch noted, "The belief is that the latter wouldn't waive...to come to Ottawa."
Senators to miss out on Kyrou
Kyrou is currently entering the fourth year of a massive eight-year, $65 million contract, and that deal includes a full no-trade clause. Because he holds all the leverage, any potential trade lives and dies by his pen. If Kyrou has no desire to pack up and move north of the border, the conversation ends before it even really starts.
It is easy to understand why the Senators would poke around on a player like Kyrou. He brings world-class, straight-line speed and dynamic transitional skill that would look incredible on a line next to Tim Stutzle. But Canadian markets routinely face a steep uphill battle when it comes to players exercising their no-trade clauses, whether it is due to high tax rates, lifestyle preferences, or the relentless media fishbowl.
Now that the Senators are out on Kyrou, Staios will have to focus his attention elsewhere to find that top-six scoring punch. And, according to Garrioch, the Senators are keeping a close eye on Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish. McTavish doesn't carry the same contract roadblocks and plays a bit different of a style of game. He tends to bring a bit heavier, more physical style. He also has strong organizational ties with his father working as a pro scout for Ottawa.
Hunting for a superstar trade is always a game of trial and error. The Kyrou situation is a quick reminder of how difficult it can be to land elite talent, especially for a Canadian team. The Senators have the cap space and the desire to make a splash, but they'll need to pivot to someone else, and hopefully they can get a deal done.
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