The conversation began when a video of Steve Staios, the general manager of the Ottawa Senators, resurfaced, revealing that the club had been approached with a trade proposal from the Pittsburgh Penguins centered on the 25th overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.
Pittsburgh had already secured forward Liam Ruck with the 22nd selection and was reportedly eyeing his brother, Marcus Ruck, as a potential addition. Marcus ultimately slipped to the 39th pick, where the Penguins drafted him, turning a speculative deal into a reality.
The Penguins have been clear about the players they are unwilling to part with for a late first‑round asset, naming veterans such as Sidney Crosby, Bryan Rust, Rickard Rakell, Evgeni Malkin, Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang among those off‑limits.
Among the remaining candidates for trade value, forward Thomas Novak and defenseman Justin Brazeau emerged as the most plausible pieces to include in a deal. Brazeau, who carries a $1.5 million cap hit and posted a strong 2026‑27 season with 17 goals and 34 points, fit the profile of a valuable trade chip.
Although the Penguins explored possible extensions for Novak, who recently signed a three‑year contract, the final decision hinged on the perceived trade equity of each player.
Implications for Ottawa
The move signals a strategic shift for Ottawa, aiming to inject scoring talent while maintaining flexibility in future negotiations. By adding André Burakovsky from the Chicago Blackhawks, the Senators hope to deepen their wing corps and remain competitive in the Atlantic.