In addition to our report a couple of days ago that the Ottawa Senators were exploring all options when it comes to Alex DeBrincat’s future, it now looks like the team may be leaning more towards the trade route. According to a report on Monday by Sportsnet’s Elliott Friedman, “There is news Monday afternoon that the Ottawa Senators have begun scrutinizing the commercial market for winger Alex DeBrincat.”
Senators GM Pierre Dorion is open to an eight-year contract extension for winger Alex DeBrincat, according to The Ottawa Sun’s Bruce Gariuch. However, since DeBrincat’s decision is pending, the team is looking at alternative options to retain the striker’s services. Friedman adds:
One source referred to this as “due diligence in Ottawa,” as DeBrincat recently indicated, according to multiple people, that he would like to wait until the Senators’ ownership saga is complete before considering committing to a long-term extension. Even if the Senators choose a new owner in the near future, there’s still the process of closing the sale — which will take time.
Friedman had recently reported that the senators were hoping they wouldn’t have to go down the low-interest-rate arbitration route, and now, with trade rumours, one would have to think that talks between the senators and the Debrinkat camp didn’t move so well. And if Debrincat doesn’t want to sign before a change of ownership, the Senators may be wondering if missing out on moving him in the NHL Entry Draft would be unwise.
There will be a market for his services, even if other teams are worried about pending contract negotiations. He picked an unfortunate time when his production plummeted. Maybe the Senators sell low to a player who has a higher cap than he showed last year.
Next up: Winnipeg Jets open to offers for Connor Hellebuyck, fueling trade debate