The Ottawa Senators have secured their young goalie Leevi Merilainen with a one-year, $1.05 million contract extension. The 22-year-old, drafted in the third round of the 2020 NHL Draft, showcased impressive stats last season, achieving an 8-3-1 record, a 1.99 goals-against average, and a .925 save percentage across 12 regular-season games. His performance included three shutouts.

Having primarily played with the AHL's Belleville Senators, where Merilainen recorded an 18-12-4 record and a .913 save percentage, the extension signals his anticipated role as the primary backup to Linus Ullmark, especially as Anton Forsberg is set to become a free agent. The Senators also extended qualifying offers to several other players, securing their future roster.

The Vancouver Canucks are nearing an extension agreement with goaltender Thatcher Demko, with sources indicating that both parties have settled on the contract's term, and only financial details remain to be finalized. This development comes just as Demko becomes eligible to sign a new deal.

In other news, the Ottawa Senators are in discussions with two of their pending unrestricted free agents, Adam Gaudette and Nick Cousins, as they aim to solidify their roster ahead of the deadline. Meanwhile, Brad Marchand's future is uncertain, with speculation about potential interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs and a possible return to the Boston Bruins, though he is currently focused on negotiating terms with the Florida Panthers.

Claude Giroux has signed a one-year contract with the Ottawa Senators, featuring a base salary of $2 million and potential bonuses that could elevate its total value to $4.75 million. The 37-year-old forward had a solid season with 50 points, including 15 goals and 35 assists, playing a crucial role in the Senators’ first playoff appearance since 2017.

Senators' GM Steve Staios praised Giroux for his veteran leadership and competitive spirit, emphasizing the importance of his presence both on and off the ice. Giroux expressed his enjoyment of the season, noting the camaraderie in the locker room and his aspirations to contribute significantly in the coming year. Having amassed over 1,100 career points, Giroux's experience will be invaluable for a Senators team eager to build on its recent playoff experience.

The Minnesota high school hockey scene has once again showcased its talent as 23 players were drafted into the NHL and PWHL this past week. Highlighted among them are standout names like Logan Hensler from Hill-Murray, selected by the Ottawa Senators in the first round, and Rory Guilday from Minnetonka, chosen by the Ottawa Charge. Hensler, already a world junior gold medalist, is set to contribute significantly to the Senators' future. Other notable picks include Mason West, a promising player from Edina, and Jacob Rombach, who brings impressive size and skill.

As Minnesota's reputation as the 'State of Hockey' grows, these players represent the culmination of their youth careers in an environment rich with competitive hockey. Each drafted player not only reflects individual skill but also the strength of Minnesota's hockey programs. Even without the local NHL team, the Minnesota Wild, making any selections this year, the future looks bright for these young athletes on the national stage.

Claude Giroux will remain with the Ottawa Senators for another season after signing a one-year contract worth $2 million, with additional incentives. The veteran forward, who has played 18 seasons in the NHL, contributed 50 points in the past season, significantly aiding the Senators' return to the playoffs for the first time in eight years.

Meanwhile, Dante Fabbro has secured a four-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets for $16.5 million after impressing since his acquisition from Nashville. In contrast, Conor Sheary was placed on waivers by the Tampa Bay Lightning for contract termination; he managed only five games last season due to injuries and salary cap constraints.