The Ottawa Senators are focusing on building a solid team foundation, aiming to return to the playoffs next season. General Manager Steve Staios faces the challenge of retaining key players, including Claude Giroux, who is currently in negotiations to re-sign. Other pending free agents include Nick Cousins, Adam Gaudette, and Anton Forsberg, although financial constraints may limit the Senators' ability to keep all of them.

While the organization aims to keep its core together, it recognizes that balancing contracts and maintaining competitive depth will be crucial in the upcoming free agency period and the NHL Draft. The Senators are optimistic about their prospects, reflecting on their progress and the support from their fanbase.

The Ottawa Senators are actively pursuing a right-handed top-four defenseman to bolster their roster as they look to build on last season's success. Despite some teams also seeking similar players, the Senators have a specific target in mind, particularly following Nick Jensen's recent surgery. Rasmus Andersson from Calgary is highlighted as a strong candidate, especially if contract negotiations don’t proceed smoothly for him with the Flames. The Senators possess some cap space, which could facilitate a strategic move during the upcoming draft, as they aim to enhance their defensive lineup.

In addition to their search for a defenseman, there's also mutual interest between Claude Giroux and the Senators, indicating potential moves to solidify both the offense and defense for the upcoming season.

The Calgary Flames are actively seeking to bolster their center depth as they prepare for the upcoming season. With Nazem Kadri and Mikael Backlund firmly positioned in their 30s, the organizational strategy may involve promoting Connor Zary, a young talent who has been playing on the wing but could transition to center. Recent discussions mentioned Morgan Frost, a pending RFA who underperformed after his acquisition from the Philadelphia Flyers. The Flames might offer him a deal based on his potential, especially considering their need for centers. Additionally, the Flames have set their sights on drafting prospects like Jack Nesbitt and Cole Reschny to enhance their center options.

In other news, the Ottawa Senators are working on retaining Claude Giroux, who is keen to stay with the team. Informal discussions have taken place regarding a potential short-term deal, possibly in the $3 to $4 million range, drawing comparisons to Joe Pavelski's contract. The Senators' focus is also on signing RFAs like Fabian Zetterlund while considering high-impact forwards via trade or free agency.

The Calgary Flames are reportedly considering a bridge deal for Connor Zary, a pending restricted free agent (RFA) who recorded 27 points in 54 games last season, despite battling injuries. A potential three-year contract around $3 million could be in the works, similar to Alex Newhook's deal with the Montreal Canadiens. The Flames also need to address their other RFAs, Kevin Bahl and Morgan Frost, and may need to shift their strategies.

Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators face a challenging situation regarding their forfeited draft pick stemming from the Evgenii Dadonov trade mishap. They could either forfeit their 2025 or 2026 first-round pick, depending on NHL leniency. With a shortage of assets for offer sheets and a need for scoring support, potential free-agent targets include notable wingers such as Nikolaj Ehlers and Ryan Donato. The Senators are also evaluating whether to retain Claude Giroux, who may require a lucrative contract extension.

With the offseason approaching, the Ottawa Senators are navigating crucial contract negotiations, particularly concerning the future of Claude Giroux and Anton Forsberg, who are both poised to enter unrestricted free agency. General Manager Steve Staios remains optimistic about retaining Giroux, emphasizing the team's affection for the veteran. The discussions are still in early stages, with Staios noting the emotional aftermath of the recent season.

Regarding Forsberg, a pivotal figure in the Senators' goaltending lineup, Staios highlighted the potential of young goaltender Leevi Merilainen, indicating he might step into a backup role next season. Still, Forsberg's contributions and work ethic remain significant factors in their decision-making process. Ottawa's management is taking a calculated approach to assess the lineup and strategize for improvements.