Senators Rumors: Could Jakob Chychrun Be On The Move?

Hockey insiders Nick Kypreos and Rob Ellis have ignited speculation that the Ottawa Senators might be considering a significant move in the near future: trading away their talented defenseman, Jakob Chychrun.

The driving force behind this conjecture is the Senators' uncertain position in the NHL standings.

With the trade deadline approaching on March 8, the team could be on the verge of shifting into "sell mode," aiming to reshape their roster for future success.

Jakob Chychrun wires a 92.5mph slapshot that BLASTS the stick out of the hand of Alexandar Georgiev. #Sens #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/YfFpcOAkKK

— Pesky Sickos (@PeskySickos) December 22, 2023

Chychrun's allure as a trade asset lies in his unique blend of skill and affordability, with a contract extending through the 2024-25 season.

He is set to hit free agency in July 2025.

Several NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, and Dallas Stars, have reportedly expressed interest in improving their defense, and Chychrun would be a fine addition to any of these teams.

However, the path to trading Chychrun isn't without its hurdles, as his 10-team no-trade clause and the NHL's tight salary cap landscape this season could bring up issues.

First game back in Arizona for #GoSensGo defenseman Jakob Chychrun.

His path to this point is wild - full of frustration, most of which we've never known, and some feel-good highs. Let him tell you. ⬇️

Frankly Speaking: https://t.co/C44D8Ag0NE

Presented by @betwaycanada. pic.twitter.com/XWfPORLWTU

— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) December 20, 2023

The recent appointment of Steve Staios as interim GM may also play a pivotal role in the Senators' deliberations.

Staios's fresh perspective on the team's direction could potentially make a trade more possible, even if it means parting ways with a player like Chychrun, who has made significant contributions to the Senators' cause.

Photo Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports