With the start of free agency almost here, Ottawa Senators pending unrestricted free agent Claude Giroux remains without a contract. If this does not change by Wednesday at noon ET, the Senators' veteran forward will hit the free agent market.
Giroux may be 38 years old now, but he is still a solid player at this stage in his career. In 82 games last season with the Senators, he posted 14 goals, 35 assists, 49 points, and a plus-20 rating. With numbers like these, he would be a good addition for a team that is looking to boost its top nine.
Because of this, let's look at three teams that could sign Giroux if the Senators are unable to extend him.
Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning should be looking to improve at the right wing position. Oliver Bjorkstrand and Corey Perry are both expected to hit the market on July 1. Due to this, it would make sense if they made a run at Giroux this offseason. On a one-year deal with performance bonuses, there could be a good match here.
Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche stand out as another team that would make sense as a suitor for Giroux. They recently traded Valeri Nichushkin, Ross Colton, and Jack Drury. Because of this, they could use another forward, and Giroux would be worth bringing in on an affordable short-term deal. The Avalanche could also interest Giroux, as they are expected to be among the NHL's top contenders next season.
Philadelphia Flyers
Could the Flyers try to reunite with Giroux this offseason? It would make for a great story, as the veteran forward had an excellent 15-year stint with the Flyers from 2007-08 to 2020-21. The Flyers also took a big step in the right direction this past season, so perhaps that could be enough for Giroux to consider heading back to Philly.
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