Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk has been in NHL trade rumors for a while now and it doesn't seem to be stopping any time soon. Tkachuk's future is a major topic of conversation after the Carolina Hurricanes defeated Ottawa in the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs. Is the 26-year-old leaving Ottawa? An NHL insider has given a big update on the situation.
David Pagnotta would be "a little surprised" if Tkachuk was still a Senator for the 2026-27 NHL season, according to a Hello Hockey insider. Since Ottawa's captain has a no-movement clause, he would have to approve any trade this summer. This means Tkachuk could essentially make his way to a specific organization.
Tkachuk has two years left on his contract and the easiest connection in a potential trade or future signing is the Florida Panthers. Tkachuk's brother, Matthew, plays for the Panthers, and would be an excellent addition to the organization. After missing the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Florida could use a boost to its lineup.
However, this specific situation requires both Tkachuk and Ottawa to work together. If the 26-year-old forward does not plan to extend his contract, the Senators will now be incentivized to move him. Ultimately, it depends on whether Tkachuk wants to stay with the organization in the future.
Tkachuk struggled in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, scoring zero points in a four-game sweep. After entering the playoffs with a lot of momentum, Ottawa's captain did not live up to the standards. Now, Tkachuk's future could cast a dark cloud over the Senators' upcoming NHL offseason.
Tkachuk is under contract for two more seasons, but finding a new position moving forward may be best for both parties.
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