The NHL offseason has already delivered its share of surprises, and the Ottawa Senators are now at the center of one of the most intriguing storylines. In a move few saw coming, reliable winger and Team Canada gold medalist Drake Batherson has reportedly been placed on the trade block. Known for his consistency, durability, and steady offensive production, Batherson has become a mainstay in the Senators’ lineup, rarely missing a game and providing dependable scoring year after year.

Yet, as Ottawa’s front office looks to reshape the roster and pursue a higher ceiling for the team’s top six, the decision to shop Batherson signals a bold new direction. With the organization eager to build on recent progress and end a decade-long playoff drought, management appears willing to make tough choices to maximize the team’s future potential. Batherson’s affordable contract and proven track record make him a valuable asset—one that could attract significant interest across the league. As trade rumors swirl, fans and analysts alike are left to wonder which team might seize the opportunity to add a player of Batherson’s caliber, and what this means for the Senators’ evolving identity.

Photo credit: Mile High Sticking

In an unexpected turn of events, Ottawa Senators forward and former Team Canada Gold medalist, Drake Batherson, has been placed on the trade block.

The Ottawa Senators are prepared to shop winger Drake Batherson as they look for a top-six forward upgrade, according to the Ottawa Citizen’s Bruce Garrioch.

While Batherson’s name surfaced at the trade deadline, it was as much a case of teams inquiring as it was the Senators shopping him.

Senators GM Steve Staios has already made a big splash by making the deadline trade of Joshua Norris for Dylan Cozens.

With Ottawa’s offense being only 18th in the NHL in 2024-25, Staios appears ready to get even bolder with the team making a push for back-to-back playoff appearances, something they hadn’t accomplished since 2012-13.

A fourth-round pick in 2017, Batherson had become a pillar of the lineup by the 2020-21 season. The propeller-headed right winger stands 6’3″, 200 lbs.

Batherson has played in all 82 games for the last three seasons

He has been a model of health and dependability, appearing in all 82 games each of the last three seasons. In those seasons, he’s scored 22 to 28 goals and 62 to 68 points annually, with an 18-19 minute ice time average.

Now 27 years old, Batherson is regarded as a consistent but capped player, roughly a 25-goal, 65-point player.

With only Tim Stutzle and Brady Tkachuk capable of playing at a higher level, it’s no wonder Ottawa would be seeking a more upside-oriented winger.

Dealing Batherson, however, is a gamble. His $4.975 million cap value to 2026-27 is a bargain for his production, especially for a club that is not very cap-flexible.