Pierre Dorion’s first season as a General Manager in the National Hockey League could not have gone much better.
He achieved his primary goal of making the playoffs and as he had suggested during his pre-season remarks, his team was able to make some noise when they got there. Throughout the season, Dorion consistently addressed the team’s biggest needs and gave the team every opportunity to succeed. And with just one more goal, his team would have landed in the Stanley Cup Finals.
And if all that wasn’t enough, Dorion was also recognized for his work in year one, earning a nomination as General Manager of the Year. Not a bad start.
But now as the dust settles on a terrific campaign, Dorion’s job is about to get a whole lot more difficult. With the expansion draft looming and an Entry Draft and free agency just over the horizon, these are busy times for Dorion and the rest of the front office.
And it hasn’t exactly got off to an easy start.
The Senators knew they were in a vulnerable spot heading into expansion but Phaneuf’s potential decision not to waive his no movement clause has thrown a bit of a wrinkle into the organization’s plans. And while it’s not clear if Phaneuf has officially notified the team of his decision, it sounds like the Senators are already preparing for the possibility.
While they could easily sit back and just let Vegas have their choice of Methot or Claesson, Dorion is working the phones to see what he could get in a trade for one of his other defenceman. And according to some of the chatter out there over the last 24 hours, that includes testing the market for Dion Phaneuf.
They’ve also taken calls on Methot and Ceci.
Dorion met with the media in Ottawa this morning and calmed the waters a little bit, suggesting that he’s considering all scenarios and that he’s comfortable heading into the weekend.
To date, Dorion said he has spoken with at least 23 other GMs about trades so it’s seems clear all options are on the table heading into the weekend.
He also provided quick updates on UFAs suggesting that conversations are ongoing with Condon, Stalberg, Wingels and Pyatt but none are expected to sign before the expansion draft. On Chris Kelly, he wouldn’t completely rule out a return but it seems like the club wants to look in all other directions first.
They’ll also meet with Jean Gabriel Pageau’s agent next week.
Expansion decisions need to be made in a hurry.
Phaneuf has until 5:00 PM tomorrow to respond to the Senators request to waive. Protection lists must be submitted to the league by 5:00 PM on Saturday and they’ll be revealed publicly the morning after.
