BREAKING: Senators to Keep 21st Overall Draft Pick Despite Pending Forfeiture Penalty, Setting Stage for High-Stakes Chess Match with League
SENS’ FIRST-ROUND PICK: ALL EYES ON OTTAWA AS DRAFT LOOMS
The Ottawa Senators are the talk of the town, and it’s not just because of their impressive run to the playoffs. A looming decision on their first-round pick in the upcoming NHL Draft has the hockey world abuzz. Let’s dive into the intrigue surrounding the Sens’ pick.
FROM PLAYOFF CONTENDERS TO PICK FORFEITURE
The Senators rode a strong second-half performance into the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Though they fell to the Toronto Maple Leafs in six games, this was a significant step forward for the team. However, a dark cloud hangs over their latest success: a penalty for failing to disclose Evgenii Dadonov’s no-trade clause when he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2021.
This oversight, revealed when Vegas tried to trade Dadonov to the Anaheim Ducks at the 2022 deadline (only to find out he had a no-trade clause listing the Ducks), has resulted in the Sens being required to forfeit their first-round pick either this year or next. Ottawa used their 2023 pick on blueliner Carter Yakemchuk, and now they sit 21st in the draft order, the lowest they’ve been since 2017.
STAIOS STANDS FIRM: THE PICK STAYS
General Manager Steve Staios dropped a bombshell earlier this week, telling reporters, including Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia, that it’s “highly likely” the Sens will keep their first-round pick and push the penalty into next season. This stance raised eyebrows across the league.
But team owner Michael Andlauer hasn’t ruled out hope. pubblically, Andlauer expressed his wish that Commissioner Gary Bettman might reduce or eliminate their penalty in the future. He’s not the first to dream of a reprieve – the New Jersey Devils found their 17-year contract with Ilya Kovalchuk casually amended to a 15-year deal, with a delayed first-round pick as punishment.
BETTMAN’S STANCE: NO CHANGE IN SIGHT
Bettman’s public comments last November dash any hopes of the penalty being reduced or removed. He told Garrioch that the Sens will have to forfeit a pick if they can’t provide a valid reason for hiding Dadonov’s no-trade clause. It seems a game of chicken is afoot, with Ottawa hoping for a change of heart as the draft deadline looms.
So, will the Sens make a pick come draft night? All signs point to yes, with Staios recently stating, “Barring a strong trade offer, we’ll be making the 21st selection on the opening night.”
Did you know? The last time the Sens picked 21st overall, they selected forward Filip Chlapik in 2015.
FAQs: ANSWERING YOUR BURNING QUESTIONS
- Q: What year was the Sens’ penalty announced? A: The penalty was announced in 2022, following the trade deadline that revealed Dadonov’s no-trade clause.
- Q: Who did the Sens pick with their 2023 first-rounder? A: The Sens drafted defenceman Carter Yakemchuk with the 7th overall pick in 2023.
- Q: What position is the Sens’ 2024 pick? A: The Sens hold the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Stick around, Sens fans! The draft is just around the corner, and the intriguing tale of Ottawa’s first-round pick is far from over. Keep your eyes peeled for updates from 247Sports.
Now it’s your turn: Will the Sens ultimately keep their 2024 pick? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 🗣️💬
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