Chief among the assets New York would have to part with might be Alexis Lafreniere. The former first overall selection in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft has yet to meet the expectations set for him upon his arrival in the Big Apple, but he’s still an intriguing talent many franchises would like to acquire. Regardless, a one-for-one player exchange would be utopian. In addition to Lafreniere, the Rangers will have to make their offer worth the Senators’ while.

“Alexis Lafreniere would almost surely have to be included in a hypothetical trade package for Tkachuk. As would at least one first-round pick and other roster pieces or prospects,” Vince Mercogliano stated on The New York Times.

Tkachuk brushed off the trade rumors, but as long as it remains verbal and no long-term extension is signed in Bytown, it’s still fair game for any team to test the waters around the Senators. That includes the Rangers, who have rated Tkachuk since before he was even drafted into the NHL and have only marveled at the kind of player and leader he’s become.

Lafreniere’s stats

Coming off back-to-back 100-plus point seasons in the QMJHL for the Rimouski Océanic, some analysts went as far as to dub Lafreniere a generational prospect entering the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. That was a stretch, but it still felt like the Rangers found their savior after winning the draft lottery and coming away with the No. 1 selection in the draft.

However, it took a while before Lafreniere started playing up to the standard he set in the QMJHL. His best hockey in Manhattan was seen during the 2023–24 campaign (57 points in 82 games), including a great run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Although the Blueshirts fell in the Eastern Conference Final to the Florida Panthers, Lafreniere stole the show with 14 points (8 G, 6 A) in 16 outings.

After a troubling start to the past campaign, Lafreniere ended the season on a heater, including a 19-point tally in March (a career best in a single month). As a result, Lafreniere actually matched his career high of 57 points in the 2025–26 campaign.

NY Rangers must make decision

Perhaps it’s just the kind of production that gives Rangers fans hope that Lafreniere might be the answer after all. Or maybe it’s the growth spurt needed for New York to shop him and actually have a market for the former No. 1 pick.

Although Tkachuk and Ottawa have made it clear there’s been no internal conversation about a fresh start, fans across the NHL know anything can happen. For the Rangers, they are entering the homestretch of the free-for-all Lafreniere sweepstakes.

Lafreniere’s contract with NY Rangers

Lafreniere is signed to a seven-year, $52.1 million contract that runs through the 2031–32 NHL season. However, the 2026–27 campaign will be crucial. Next season will be the last year Lafreniere is without a no-trade clause.

Starting in the summer of 2027, his contract will include a modified no-trade clause in the form of an eight-team no-trade list. It still leaves New York with over 20 teams to talk business with, but it makes trading Lafreniere prior to that deadline much more sensible.

“I feel like I’ve never shown, never said, none of those things have ever come out of my mouth, and quite honestly it’s just getting frustrating. It’s becoming a distraction,” Tkachuk said during his end-of-season availability in Ottawa, per NHL.com. “I have been fully committed to this team, to this city. Frustrating to deal with.”

Tkachuk—who missed the Senators‘ end-of-season media day to welcome his daughter Lyla into the world—made his commitment to the organization and the city of Ottawa clear. As Rangers fans have been paying close attention to his situation, hearing Tkachuk show no signs of giving up on the Sens may not be an encouraging sign heading into the long NHL offseason. Regardless, anything can happen, and the fanbase in the Big Apple will still hold onto a thread of hope.

NY Rangers growing obsessed with Tkachuk

Fans in the Big Apple believe the Rangers can save Tkachuk. Back in Canada, he’s constantly under the microscope, and his national team history does him no favors with the Canadian fanbase. In New York, the story could be much different for him. Obviously, Manhattan is still a tough market to navigate, but Tkachuk is already battle-tested.

Regardless, it may all be empty talk if Tkachuk is serious about changing the tune in Ottawa and the front office in Bytown isn’t blown away by any offer during the summer. Still, it may do Chris Drury and company no harm to knock on the Sens’ door every once in a while.

Tkachuk had a rough ending to the season

The 2026 Olympics may have been a breaking point between Tkachuk and the fanbase in Canada’s capital. Watching Tkachuk and Team USA take down Canada in the gold medal game left its mark, and it seemed like the die was cast in the relationship between the organization’s captain and the fans.

Tkachuk did quiet much of the noise as he and his teammates turned the NHL season around and made the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, nothing good came of it. The Sens were swept by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, and their captain was held scoreless through all four games.

To make matters worse, Tkachuk was assessed 13 penalty minutes (PIM), an average of 3.25 PIM per outing. The captain’s scoring woes weren’t exclusive to him, though, as Ottawa scored just five goals in the entire series. With an average of 1.25 goals per game in the postseason, it was clear the Senators wouldn’t last long.

Tkachuk’s contract with Senators

Tkachuk has two seasons left on his seven-year, $57.5 million contract with the Senators. The former fourth overall pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft put pen to paper on that extension back in 2021. As it stands, he’s set to become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) in the summer of 2028 at the age of 28.

Since the 2025–26 campaign, Tkachuk’s contract includes a full no-movement clause (NMC). Thus, the captain will have the final say on whatever decision his team lands on. If the Sens want to trade him, Tkachuk will be able to handpick his next destination.

Teams to watch in potential Tkachuk trade

The Rangers are considered heavy favorites, but so could the Detroit Red Wings and St. Louis Blues (Tkachuk’s hometown club). Though more difficult from a money standpoint, if the Senators announce the Tkachuk sweepstakes are open, the Florida Panthers may chime in and look for a way to reunite the brothers in the Sunshine State. After all, Brady has seen more playoff success from the stands in Sunrise than on the ice in the suburb of Kanata.

Tkachuk’s statement comes shortly after a loud outcry erupted around the NHL. Among the various issues that raised fans’ eyebrows was a player saying, “Close the northern border,” during Team USA’s postgame phone call with President Donald Trump.

“I’ve been seeing stuff that people think it’s me. But if you watch the video, it’s not my voice and something that I never say,” Tkachuk said, via ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski. “I don’t know how that took a storm on its own when I give everything I have here. It’s crazy when things go on social media, how fast they go. I would never say anything like that.”

Tkachuk denies making such a statement

Many believe the wrongdoing should be named, but not the wrongdoer. In this case, however, that line of thinking carried little weight, as fans were eager to know who was behind the comment. That is when social media did the rest, and misinformation spread, with many users blaming Tkachuk for the candid four-word message that sent shockwaves across the continent.

Now, Tkachuk has decided to nip the issue in the bud and deny the claims, as he returns to Canada to captain the nation’s capital NHL organization, the Senators.

While the 2025–26 NHL season has resumed after the Olympic break, many fans are still processing everything that followed Team USA’s crowning in Italy. On that note, there has been no shortage of drama—something Tkachuk would like to put to rest. The Senators’ campaign has been dramatic enough, and his patience has run thin. That much became clear as he addressed the controversy surrounding Team USA’s celebrations.

Coach Travis Green indicated optimism about Tkachuk’s return, suggesting the forward could be back “sooner than later”, according to NHL.com. Tkachuk could return from a thumb injury this week for the Senators.

Tkachuk, 26, has now returned to full participation in practice, offering a boost to both the locker room and on-ice leadership. Coach Green praised the team’s resilience and noted the captain’s readiness to rejoin the squad.

The captain Tkachuk expressed his eagerness to return and contribute to what the club has built during his absence: “I think they’re kind of doing whatever it takes to win. The compete and will to win level is the highest I’ve ever seen, so just looking to add to that when we get back and join what they’ve built the last five weeks.”

Tkachuk’s impact

Even while sidelined, Tkachuk’s presence has been felt. He has totaled 407 points in 515 NHL regular-season games and seven points in six Stanley Cup Playoff contests.

General manager Steve Staios also highlighted the captain’s leadership during his recovery, emphasizing the team’s commitment to maintaining performance in his absence. “Brady’s done all he can to continue to lead, even with his injury, being in and around the group,” Staios said.

As Ottawa looks ahead, Tkachuk’s imminent return is expected to strengthen both scoring and morale, giving the Senators a key boost as they push through the road-heavy November schedule.

At 25, Pinto has quietly emerged as one of Ottawa’s most reliable two-way forwards. His ability to generate offense while maintaining defensive responsibility has earned praise from teammates and coaches alike.

With Brady Tkachuk expected to miss time until mid-December, Pinto’s leadership and consistency will be pivotal as the Senators aim to stay competitive in the Atlantic Division.

The timing of the extension also signals the front office’s intent to build around its young talent. “Shane is an important part of our core and we are pleased to have him with us for the foreseeable future,” said general manager and president of hockey operations Steve Staios, according to NHL.com. “This is a great opportunity for this group to grow together.”

What’s in Shane Pinto’s contract?

According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, Pinto’s deal includes a 10-team no-trade clause in Years 3 and 4. The structure gives the forward some long-term stability while allowing the Senators to plan around him as a central piece of their roster.

This extension positions Pinto as a key figure for Ottawa’s immediate and future competitiveness, especially with the team navigating the absence of its captain. The Senators now turn their focus to integrating their young talent effectively and staying on track in the playoff race.

The recovery process for Tkachuk continues as expected after undergoing surgery on October 16, but in his absence, the Senators have embraced a collective mentality. Their 4–2 win over the Utah Mammoth on Sunday reflected just that — a group effort marked by consistency, accountability, and composure under pressure.

General manager Steve Staios made it clear that the team’s recent surge is no accident. “The strength is in the group and in the team, the way that we play, the way we’re coached, the commitment, the character of this group. That’s our identity,” he said Monday, according to NHL.com.

How have the Senators maintained their identity?

Coach Travis Green credited the group’s composure and willingness to adjust. “As much as we want him in the lineup, we have players who can play. It’s just the next-man-up mentality,” Green said. “You have to win with injuries in this league.”

What has changed since the early struggles?

The Senators’ slow 2–4–1 start exposed areas where the team pressed offensively. Staios said those issues stemmed not from lack of effort, but from misplaced urgency. “It seemed like we were eager to try to get on the offense; just a little disconnected that way,” he explained. “All well intended though. Our defensemen were moving up the ice, but just a little bit disconnected and not playing to our identity.”

Focus on consistency and growth

With Tkachuk still weeks away from returning, the Senators continue to build confidence without their captain.“Brady’s done all he can to continue to lead, even with his injury, being in and around the group,” Staios said. “Credit to the group. We know how much of an impact he is for us as a team, yet our players took it upon themselves to step up and continue to play well.”

For Brady Tkachuk, the challenge has been both physical and emotional. The Senators’ captain has played only three games this season before undergoing surgery to repair a torn thumb ligament — an injury suffered when Roman Josi cross-checked him into the boards during a 4-1 loss to the Nashville Predators.

During a media appearance at the premiere of Amazon Prime’s FACEOFF: Inside the NHL, Tkachuk shared his thoughts on the Senators’ early-season performance. While the team has faced a rocky start, Tkachuk emphasized the passion and determination within the locker room to overcome challenges and improve.

“I think what we’ve accomplished created just that much more passion to, not just do it again, but, you know, for our standards to rise and the passion to, you know, achieve our childhood dreams and win this thing,” Tkachuk said, highlighting the mindset the team is building despite early setbacks.

Importance of showing players’ personalities

Tkachuk used the event to reflect on the team’s mindset and the importance of building something lasting. “Growing up I was always watching the road to the Winter Classic and seeing the behind-the-scenes stuff like that and thinking it was the coolest thing in the world,” he recalled, adding that projects like Faceoff allow players to show a more human side.

“I think that’s important that, you know people don’t see but you know, show off, have an opportunity to showcase yourself and, you know, kind of almost feel like people and fans can be a part of it and get to know that side of things. I think that’s super cool opportunity,” Tkachuk said.

The Senators will aim to carry that same passion and standard Tkachuk spoke about as they prepare to visit the Boston Bruins on Thursday night, determined to steady their season before their leader returns.

Despite the setback, Tkachuk remains committed to maintaining his edge. “All I want to do is be out there… it’s just a little bump in the road,” he said, according to NHL.com. The 26-year-old forward has resumed skating and anticipates handling a puck in “three or four weeks,” determined to return stronger than before.

Even off the ice, Tkachuk is contributing to the Senators’ season. He’s actively attending meetings, reviewing game footage, and offering guidance to teammates during practices and intermissions. “I feel like it’s easy to kind of go to your own island and sulk a little bit, but for me… it’s good to be a part of the group and help out any way that we can,” he explained.

How is Tkachuk maintaining his impact while sidelined?

Tkachuk has embraced a leadership role from the sidelines, participating in morning reviews and mentoring younger teammates. He sees this period as an opportunity to grow not only as a player but as a leader for the Senators.

The forward also has his sights set on international competition, confirming that he plans to join the U.S. roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, underscoring his commitment to both national and club success.

Tkachuk’s positive mindset

Even with Ottawa struggling at 2-4-1 and sitting sixth in the Atlantic Division, Tkachuk’s mindset remains positive. “It’s definitely a tough test mentally… it’s an opportunity to find different levels to me as a person and a player,” he said, projecting confidence that he will return ready to make an immediate impact.

“Brady Tkachuk is set to miss at least four weeks after suffering a hand injury, head coach Travis Green admitted after practice on Tuesday. Green added that surgery has not been ruled out,” as stated by Sportsnet.

Brady will miss at least a month due to the hand/wrist injury he sustained during a scuffle with the Nashville Predators. Ottawa can’t believe how a seemingly harmless play led to a season-threatening setback for the Sens. Now, both Tkachuk brothers will be off the ice for the foreseeable future in the 2025-26 NHL season. Here, we take a look back at the last time both Brady and Matthew had to watch the action from home at the same time.

Though great players, the Tkachuk siblings aren’t immune to the intensity of the NHL’s 82-game season. Unfortunately, both brothers have their fair share of setbacks in their medical report. Thus, it isn’t surprising this won’t be the first time Brady and Matthew miss a handful of games at the same time. The last time that happened, however, wasn’t that long ago.

Back in April

Following the 4 Nations Final in February 2025, Matthew was placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) by the Panthers. He returned to NHL action on April 23, but in the weeks between those dates, Brady sustained an upper-body injury that sidelined him for 16 days, from April 1–17.

As a result, the two siblings were absent simultaneously for approximately two weeks during the past season. However, after the latest news out of Ottawa, the Tkachuks are expected to be sidelined for the longest stretch of their careers.

Estimated returns

Still recovering from his surgery in the offseason, Matthew is expected back on the ice for Florida in mid-to-late December. In the meantime, Florida hopes to stay afloat while battling an injury-bug.

As for the organization in Canada’s capital city, the Senators hope their captain will return in early November. That timeline, however, is subject to change, with surgery still on the table for Brady.

After the Panthers confirmed another long-term extension, they felt set at the blueline. On that note, a defenseman on a professional tryout contract (PTO) has been relieved of his duties in Florida.

Blueliner Ben Harpur hasn’t played in an NHL game since April 6, 2023. At the time, the defenseman was with the New York Rangers—his third club in a four-year span. Now, the Panthers have shut the door on his dream to make the reigning Stanley Cup champions’ roster.

“Defenseman Ben Harpur has been released from his professional tryout (PTO),” the Panthers announced on their latest roster cuts, via NHL.com. Harpur, 30, is now a free agent in search for his next adventure. All signs indicate he’ll play in the American Hockey League (AHL), as he’s done for the most part in the last few years.

Ontario-native

Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Harpur was selected by Ottawa in the 2013 NHL entry Draft. Harpur played one season alongside the youngest Tkachuk brother on the Senators during the 2018-19 campaign. Harpur had spent the prior three years in Ottawa, but Brady didn’t make his rookie debut until then. Harpur will miss the chance to play with both Tkachuk brothers.

Now, the 30-year-old blueliner is off to his own luck, with no clear indications of where he might head next. Florida decided to release him, but the back-to-back Stanley Cup-winning franchise hasn’t made any further decision on his future. Unlike, Hunter Johannes, Trevor Carrick, and Jake Livingstone who were also released of their PTOs, but will report to the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL.

Follow the leader

While watching Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov go down with injuries is demoralizing for the Cats, Florida knows better than to dwell on it for too long. Instead, the Panthers are embracing the adversity. Moreover, everybody on the team wants to stay in town for a while. After Niko Mikkola signed the latest of Florida’s long-term deals, the blueliner admitted making a decision was easy.

“Saw all the boys signing here, so it was a no-brainer,” Niko Mikkola said, via Jameson Olive. “You look around and you know the guys. All the guys are great guys. I’ve been enjoying it since the first day I came to Florida. It’s way more fun when you play on a good team.”

The Senators took a rough beating against Laine and the Canadiens at Videotron Centre in Quebec City. As the score got out of hand with a 5-0 win for the Habs, the Tkachuk-less Sens retaliated. However, they went too far, and the NHL is now assessing harsh fines for two players in Ottawa.

“Ottawa’s Hayden Hodgson has been fined $2,018.23, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for boarding Montreal’s Alex Newhook,” @NHLPlayerSafety announced through X, formerly Twitter. “Ottawa’s Nick Cousins has been fined $2,148.44, the maximum allowable under the CBA, for slashing Montreal’s Ivan Demidov.”

Repeat offenders

For Laine and the Habs, the shenanigans in display by Cousins and Hodgson weren’t too surprising. After all, the Senators duo has accustomed fans in the NHL to some rowdy behavior. Perhaps, there’s some bad-blood between Montreal and Cousins, as the organization traded him in February 2020, shortly after he had signed with the Habs in July 2019.

Either way, his slash on Canadiens’ Calder Trophy favorite Ivan Demidov boiled the blood of everybody in the City of Saints. On that note, head coach Martin St. Louis dropped a bold statement condemning the incident.

“There’s no need for that,” St. Louis stated after the game, via TSN. “It’s an exhibition game, both teams are trying to get ready for a long season. I don’t think there’s any need for that in the game.”

Watch out

Cousins’ reputation in the NHL is often under the scope. The Stanley Cup champion with the Florida Panthers in 2024 has had his fair share of controversial plays throughout his 11-year career.

The slash on Demidov will surely be remembered when the Habs and Sens meet again for the preseason finale on October 4. If Cousins is in the lineup, he’ll almost certainly be shadowed around the ice by Laine’s Canadiens.