The winding saga between the Ottawa Senators and the NHL has reached a pivotal moment, marking another chapter in a controversy that has lingered for years. What began as a routine player trade has slowly unraveled into a cautionary tale of oversight, league discipline, and the far-reaching consequences of administrative errors. As the dust settles on the latest developments, the Senators’ front office faces the reality of a difficult decision that will shape the franchise’s future.

With the league’s eyes firmly fixed on Ottawa, the organization has been under intense scrutiny, navigating both internal pressures and public debate. The fallout from the Evgenii Dadonov trade mishap has not only tested the team’s resolve, but also raised broader questions about transparency and accountability in professional sports. As Commissioner Gary Bettman’s ruling looms large over the franchise, Senators fans and hockey observers alike are left to reflect on what this means for the team’s long-term prospects.

In the midst of speculation and strong opinions from all corners, the Senators have finally taken a definitive step forward. The implications of this choice will resonate throughout the locker room, the fanbase, and the wider NHL community as the organization moves to close this controversial chapter.

Photo credit: TSN

The Ottawa Senators were punished by the NHL for an Evgenii Dadonov trade error, and now, they’ve officially made their minds up on a tough decision.

Back in 2021, the Ottawa Senators traded Evgenii Dadonov to the Vegas Golden Knights, and at the time, all seemed fine with the trade that should have worked out well for both teams.

Then in 2022, the Golden Knights tried to move him to Anaheim when they became aware of a major issue, as Dadonov was not given the opportunity to submit a 10-team no-trade list before being moved.

That was the issue, as the Golden Knights were not aware of this list, as it was then revealed that Ottawa did not mention the list to Vegas, and as a result, the NHL came down hard on Ottawa, revealing their punishment.

The punishment from Gary Bettman was to take away a first-round pick, with the team having to elect to choose which one to forfeit, and now, the team have made the league aware that they will be keeping their 2025 first-round pick, meaning it will be the 2026 one that now goes away.

However, the NHL also have the option to reduce or take away the punishment entirely, but with Bettman being the one to issue this sanction, it’s highly unlikely that will eventually happen.

At the time, the punishment seemed over the top from the league, with new owner Michael Andlauer calling that out, but unless something changes, the official decision from Ottawa has been made.

Ultimately, the team will now pick at No. 21 in this upcoming draft before being forced to lose their pick in 2026, and while it still seems like a fairly harsh punishment for Ottawa, it’s now almost over.