With the NHL trade deadline looming on the not too distant horizon, and the Ottawa Senators sitting comfortably within the playoff bubble, the discussion among fans had predictably turned toward the NHL Trade Deadline in late February.
In a rebuilding year, the Sens have been a pleasant surprise to this point and could be looking to add a piece for the playoffs. As Bryan Murray suggested, once you get in, anything can happen.
In an interview posted on SensTV, Murray discussed exactly how his plans could change a little bit leading up to the deadline. One quote that caught my attention came when Murray was asked whether or not he would be looking to make a splash before the deadline.
"I think our depth is ok right now but we may need a substantial piece," replied the Sens GM.
When prodded further, it sounded like Murray could be looking to add a goal scoring forward. I certainly don’t expect Murray to overpay and mortgage any of the club’s bright future, but if an impact player became available for the right price, Murray seems willing to pull the trigger.
Something interesting Murray brought up in this interview is the fact that it has to be a move that the players in the locker room believe will make the team better. It sounds like Murray is very cognizant of the great chemistry this group has and will be careful not to rock the boat.
Like any trade discussion and rumours talked about in the last little while, it’s important to note that the club will need some flexibility from the owner before making a move. Also important to acknowledge the fact that a whole lot can change over the next few weeks and the direction the team takes will have a lot to do with where they sit in the Eastern Conference playoff picture a little closer to the deadline.
The next five games away from Scotiabank Place will be a major challenge for this hockey team and will go a long way to deciding where they may end up at season’s end.
In speaking with a couple people over the past few days, I get the sense that if Murray does make a move pre-deadline, it will be for a guy who can play in the team’s top six. Also get the sense the club wouldn’t mind adding some depth to the blueline as well. Don’t be surprised to hear the name of former Senators draft pick, Tim Gleason connected to the Sens at some point.
You can watch the full interview with Bryan Murray here.
Sens are on the ice for their morning skate at 2:30 PM. We’ll have to wait to find out if either of Mark Borowiecki or Andre Petersson make their debut tonight in San Jose. Game day post coming in a little bit.
