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New York Times
09-07-2025
- Sport
- New York Times
Senators depth chart 2.0: Projecting the lineup after subtle offseason tweaks
Once we pass the first few days of July, it usually means offseason moves and activity should be at a minimum. But this summer some people, like NHL agent Allan Walsh, seem to think otherwise. There is approximately $275 Million of available cap space remaining within the system for next year. The most common comment from NHL teams right now – 'we have the cap dollars but no players to spend them on.' Watch for the trade market to heat up next week. — Allan Walsh🏒 (@walsha) July 5, 2025 At this stage, it remains to be seen whether the Senators will wade into those trade waters, even if that likely remains the best path if they want to improve scoring. The team already traded to acquire defensive depth in Jordan Spence during the weekend of the NHL Draft, but Senators general manager Steve Staios says he's not likely to make many more moves this offseason. Advertisement Of course, that doesn't mean Staios will throw his phone in the Ottawa River and say no to trade possibilities as they happen. Staios even told reporters that the Spence addition wasn't on his radar until closer to the draft. But until something else unexpected pops up, this new depth chart will have to do as we settle further into summer mode at The Athletic. First AHL call-ups: F Stephen Halliday, F Hayden Hodgson, F Zack MacEwen, F Olle Lycksell Zetterlund and Giroux's spots will be of keen interest entering camp. Is Zetterlund better served on the right side with Stützle? Or does he play to the left of Cozens, where he got time in the playoffs? In any case, with Zetterlund signed and the Senators hopeful in his offensive game, he is not a player the Senators will try to ease in on the fourth line. Giroux's versatility will serve him well on any line he's placed on. But for now, we've slotted him as a third-liner with Greig and his pupil, Pinto, allowing him to still play on the right side and somewhat shelter his minutes as he enters his age-38 season. Michael Amadio is penciled in on the team's fourth line, but could also return to the third and re-establish chemistry with Pinto and Greig. For those who feel Perron should be further down the lineup (as we had it in our last depth chart), there's some logic behind why he sticks on the second line with Cozens and Batherson for now. As long as Cousins remains healthy, he'll likely occupy the team's fourth-line left-wing spot. If Perron is healthy and plays anything like what he did in March and the playoffs, there are worse places for him to be than second-line left wing to start the year. But Ottawa could still use another scoring option up front. Ottawa filled its fourth-line centre vacancy with veteran and 2018 Stanley Cup champion Lars Eller, who has shown his value as a secondary contributor and penalty killer. Eller is also a career 50.3 percent faceoff man — he had a 52.2 percent win rate last season, split between Pittsburgh and Washington. If the Senators make the playoffs again in 2025-26, Eller's veteran presence will be another one to lean on in their dressing room. Advertisement If Ottawa needs size in its call-ups, they needn't look further than MacEwen and Hodgson, who both saw time in the NHL last year. Halliday showed promise in the AHL last season — if he makes a jump in his play, does he give himself a fighting chance to be Ottawa's 13th forward? Senators fans who'd like any bit of hope from their prospect pipeline would certainly enjoy seeing it. First AHL call-ups: LHD Donovan Sebrango, RHD Lassi Thomson, RHD Carter Yakemchuk We've kept the defensive pairings the same from version 1.0. We'll keep the same caveat, too: Let's all be pleasantly surprised together if (or when) the Senators put Spence on a top pairing with Sanderson and let everyone else slide down on the right-hand side. Spence had success analytically with the Kings last season in sheltered minutes. But he wants a bigger role, which facilitated his move out of Los Angeles. His placement on the Senators' depth chart will become an early storyline once training camp begins in September. For those curious about Spence on a top pairing with Sanderson, what do you think of these? Sanderson-Spence Chabot-Zub Kleven-Jensen Matinpalo The Senators are 'cautiously optimistic' that Jensen could be ready for training camp. But having him play third-pairing minutes with the younger Kleven could be an interesting way to ease him back into the lineup, while Chabot and Zub could play on a second pair. Ottawa will have some depth options with some intrigue entering a new season. Sebrango made a cameo appearance in the NHL this past year, so he could be a candidate for fill-in minutes if a chance comes. But Thomson, the Senators' first-round pick from 2019 who played well in Sweden last year, is back after posting good offensive totals with the Malmö Redhawks last year. I'm not completely sure about his chances for the team's seventh defenceman spot with Matinpalo already in it as a right-shot. Advertisement Of course, there's Yakemchuk. The youngster is likely destined for the American League for his first taste of professional hockey, which isn't a bad thing. His offensive talent will give him a chance in camp. But the Senators want to see improvement in his defensive game. The AHL will give him quality time to show and prove that he's made those gains. No need for Ottawa to rush him, unless he undeniably makes the front office think twice about sending him down to the minors. First AHL call-ups: G Mads Sogaard Ullmark will enter his first year of a four-year, $33 million contract that carries a no-move clause and should keep him in Senators colours through 2029, leaving little doubt who will start in goal come Game 1 of the regular season. The newly extended Merilainen, who played admirably in 12 appearances last season to keep the Senators' ship afloat, is the No. 2 behind Ullmark after Anton Forsberg signed with the Kings in free agency. The Senators now have Hunter Shepard for veteran stability in the AHL and Jackson Parsons as another rookie goalie on their depth chart. But if Ullmark or Merilainen go down, Sogaard — to whom Staios gave a public vote of confidence last month — is likely the next man up. (Top photo of Kleven, left, and Eller: Patrick Smith / Getty Images)
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
NHL slammed for broken system as $275M in cap space sits unused amid player shortage
NHL teams are encountering a player shortage this offseason (Getty Images) Just weeks after the Florida Panthers clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup, the NHL is facing a surprising offseason dilemma — a shortage of available players despite an eye-popping $275 million in unused cap space across the league. While champions like the Panthers and contenders like the Vegas Golden Knights have made strategic moves, top agent Allan Walsh warns that many teams are stuck in a holding pattern. Despite massive $275 million cap space, NHL teams face unexpected player drought 'There is approximately $275 million of available cap space remaining within the system for next year,' Walsh posted on X. 'The most common comment from NHL teams right now – 'We have the cap dollars but no players to spend them on.'' Many anticipated a wild free agent market, but key players were locked in before July 1. Stars like Brad Marchand, Aaron Ekblad, Sam Bennett, and Mitch Marner never even made it to the open market. The Panthers retained their core, the Golden Knights added firepower, and the Leafs offloaded Marner, all while other teams were left scrambling. The result? A league full of front offices with cash in hand — and an empty shelf to shop from. 'Watch for the trade market to heat up next week,' Walsh added, suggesting GMs may be forced to explore trades instead of free agency to bolster their rosters. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo Who's left on the market and what's the demand? Still, not all hope is lost. Players like Jack Roslovic, Max Pacioretty, Victor Olofsson, and Jeff Skinner remain available for teams in need of wingers. As for centers, Joe Veleno has attracted interest from teams like the Canadiens, Panthers, and Golden Knights. Goaltenders are another critical need, and names like Ilya Samsonov are floating around — though some clubs, like the Oilers, may be off the table after signing Matt Tomkins to a two-year deal. Also Read: Anaheim Ducks may face backlash over Mason McTavish contract drama as NHL insider hints at offer sheet risk While free agency may have fizzled faster than expected, desperation is a powerful motivator. With so much money on the line and rosters still incomplete, the NHL trade market could soon explode — because standing still isn't an option when $275 million is up for grabs. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Yahoo
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Marc-Andre Fleury Makes His Stance on Unretirement Calls Crystal Clear
Marc-Andre Fleury Makes His Stance on Unretirement Calls Crystal Clear originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Former goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury's NHL career may be over with his final game being played at the end of last season, but not every team has seemingly accepted it. Advertisement The 40-year-old officially officially retired in early May, effective following the 2024–25 season, which ended with a playoff loss to the Vegas Golden Knights and a brief international stint with Team Canada at the IIHF World Championship. According to Fleury's longtime agent, Allan Walsh, five teams called on Tuesday to see if Fleury would consider coming out of retirement. Walsh revealed those calls while appearing on a podcast from SDPN. 'July 1, I got called by five teams asking if there was any way Marc-Andre Fleury would un-retire,' Walsh said. Walsh added that the teams were serious about signing Fleury, so much so that they were willing to offer one-year deals to the agent on the spot in order to convince the goalie to return. Advertisement 'You talked about the goalie market this year,' Walsh said. 'Five teams calling and they were prepared to make serious offers on one-year deals to entice 'Flower' to their city.' Despite completing last season with a .899 save percentage and 2.93 goals-against average manning the Minnesota Wild's net, Fleury is still viewed as a viable option in a market starved for goaltending depth. Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) during DeChiara-Imagn Images Even then, the future Hockey Hall of Famer has made his stance clear and remains firm in his decision, as relayed by his agent during the same podcast. 'Well, he's made it pretty clear for now that he has no intention to play next year,' Walsh said. Advertisement Fleury finished his 21-year NHL run by appearing in 1,051 regular-season games and winning 575 of them, the second-most in league history. The netminder went on to win Stanley Cup championships in 2009, 2016 and 2017, all with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he started his career. After that, he spent the remainder of his career with the Vegas Golden Knights, Chicago Blackhawks and Wild. Related: Marc-Andre Fleury's Agent Responds to NHL Insider's Unretirement Idea Related: Wild GM Reveals Honest Expectations for Kirill Kaprizov's Future This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Marc-André Fleury receives five offers to un-retire as the NHL goalie market thins dramatically
NHL-Marc-Andre Fleury (Credit: Getty Images) Marc-André Fleury had only just closed the chapter on a storied NHL career when teams started knocking on the door again. According to his longtime agent Allan Walsh, five teams reached out on July 1 asking whether Fleury would reconsider his retirement and return to the crease for the 2025–26 season. While the veteran goalie made it clear he was stepping away for good, the recent flurry of interest has reignited discussion about the league's increasingly shallow goaltending pool. Walsh's comments brought urgency to an issue that had already been discussed behind the scenes. Agent Allan Walsh highlights NHL goalie shortage Speaking on his podcast, NHL agent Allan Walsh emphasized the limited market for reliable goaltenders heading into the new season. He pointed to the fact that clubs were seriously inquiring about Fleury's availability despite his retirement. Walsh also touched on the uncomfortable rumors surrounding other goaltending targets. In particular, the speculation is that the Edmonton Oilers might explore signing Carter Hart if he is cleared in the 2018 World Junior case. Hart was one of five players charged with sexual assault in an alleged incident from that year, and though the trial is ongoing, the mere mention of him in a free agency context shows how dire the need for goalies has become. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo This highlights the difficulty that NHL teams face in finding experienced and dependable goaltenders. Several franchises have yet to solidify their crease situations, and a lack of stability in goal could prove costly as the 2025–26 season approaches. Marc-André Fleury shows no interest in returning Despite the calls, Marc-André Fleury is not expected to change his mind. Walsh was clear in stating that his client remains committed to retirement. The longtime Montreal native has little left to prove, and after over two decades in the NHL, Fleury appears content with his decision. For now, fans and teams alike will have to accept that Flower has likely played his final NHL game. But his name still carries weight, and that alone reveals the uncomfortable reality of the current goaltending landscape. Also Read: What Connor McDavid's mindset looks like now, according to insiders' view on Oilers contract extension drama For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Calgary Herald
28-06-2025
- Sport
- Calgary Herald
NHL Entry Draft: Lewandowski stays back in Germany, watches draft remotely
Article content The talented import forward had the option of attending in person but chose not to make the trip from Germany to the United States. Article content 'This year, it's kind of different, the draft.,' he explained via telephone from Germany. 'All the (NHL) teams are not there and all that. My agent (Allan Walsh, Octagon Hockey) said 'you can stay at home; it doesn't really matter.' I just thought I was away (from home) for so long that I was just going to stay at home.' Article content Article content Even so, it hasn't dampened his enthusiasm and anticipation of what may unfold today. The draft is all he can think about when he wakes up each day leading into this weekend. Article content Article content 'I'm very excited,' he said. 'In the mornings, I'm just thinking about the draft and just waiting and waiting. I can't wait.' Article content Lewandowski entered the draft after being slotted in at No. 51 for the final NHL Central Scouting rankings. Article content 'There's no pressure,' he said, adding that he had talked to a few NHL teams prior to the draft but had no preference or a favourite team. 'I'm just excited. I can't really do something about it. If someone wants me, they'll pick me. Article content 'I don't really have a favourite team. I just like players. I like every team.' Article content That would be Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov. Article content Saskatoon Blades general manager Colin Priestner believes Lewandowski, from Dusseldorf, Germany, has a great chance to be selected within the next two rounds. Article content Article content 'I don't know — we will see,' said Lewandowski, who had 15 goals and 24 assists for 39 points in 52 games during the regular season. Article content Article content He added a goal and assist in four playoff games. Article content Lewandowski left the Dusselforfer EG men's pro team, which plays in Germany's Del2 league, early last season in October for an opportunity to get more ice-time in the junior ranks by joining the Western Hockey League's Blades. Article content 'I think it was the right decision because I didn't play much in the Del,' he explained. 'I wanted to play again and I had the opportunity in the WHL so I went over and got more ice-time and all that. It was good.' Article content He is excited about what's next with the Blades and he's already got his plane ticket to return to Saskatoon for training camp. Article content 'Of course,' he said. 'I'm always excited about a new season. I don't really have expectations for myself. I just want to play good (hockey) and play with the guys on the team. We have a good team and we will see how it goes.'
