The Ottawa Senators are heading into a high-stakes offseason, and general manager Steve Staios is looking to make a real splash to upgrade the top-six forward group. According to Postmedia’s Bruce Garrioch, the organization is targeting an impact addition this summer, with three names standing out as potential trade options.
Senators eyeing big-name forwards
At the top of that list is Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish. He’s the type of player who fits what Ottawa has been missing at times. A heavy, skilled centre who can play with pace and bring some bite.
The Ducks are expected to set a high price, likely starting with a first-round pick and a roster player. But he’s the kind of target that makes sense if Ottawa wants real change, not just small tweaks.
If Anaheim doesn’t move him, Staios is also keeping close tabs on St. Louis Blues winger Jordan Kyrou. There’s growing noise around his availability, and it’s easy to see why Ottawa would be interested. Kyrou brings straight-line speed that changes how teams defend.
When he’s going, he can tilt a game just by crossing the blue line with control. For a Senators team that can feel predictable offensively, that kind of pace would matter.
The other name that keeps coming up is New York Islanders forward Mathew Barzal. He’s a different type of swing. More of a pure playmaker who can drive a line on his own. If the Islanders shake things up after another disappointing finish, Barzal becomes the kind of player who could reshape Ottawa’s attack entirely.
The contract is heavy, and that complicates things. But the talent is obvious. He makes everyone around him look quicker and more dangerous.
It’s still early in the offseason, and everything comes down to price and timing. But the direction is clear. Ottawa isn’t shopping for small fixes anymore. They’re looking for someone who actually changes the top six.
