As the Ottawa Senators navigate the 2025-26 season, the focus will inevitably shift towards the potential free agent class of 2026. With several key players' contracts expiring, General Manager Steve Staios faces crucial decisions that could reshape the team's future.

Key Unrestricted Free Agents

Several veteran players are heading towards unrestricted free agency (UFA) in 2026. Claude Giroux, David Perron, Lars Eller and Nick Jensen are all over 35 and playing on expiring deals.

• Claude Giroux: After signing a one-year deal this summer, the Senators will need to decide on Giroux's future with the organization. At this stage of his career, Giroux will likely only sign one-year deals.
• David Perron & Lars Eller: Like Giroux, Perron and Eller are valuable veterans on expiring deals.
• Nick Jensen: Jensen's situation is particularly intriguing. Acquired in a trade from the Washington Capitals, it remains to be seen if he desires to stay in Ottawa. His performance this season, especially concerning a repaired hip, will significantly influence the Senators' decision.

These veterans bring invaluable experience both on and off the ice. If the Senators are in playoff contention, they may opt to retain these players, even at the risk of losing them for nothing in free agency.

Restricted Free Agents

The Senators also have a few restricted free agents (RFAs) to consider in 2026.

• Leevi Meriläinen: The young goaltender signed a one-year deal this summer. Meriläinen has a chance to be in Ottawa for a long time. His performance this season will dictate the size of his next contract.
• Shane Pinto: Pinto is eligible to sign his third contract with the Senators. Despite being utilized on the third line and missing games due to injury, Pinto still managed to finish fourth in team goal scoring.
• Arthur Kaliyev: Acquired by the Senators, Kaliyev will also be an RFA.
• Jordan Spence & Stephen Halliday: Both Spence and Halliday are also on the list of potential RFAs.

Key Decisions for Steve Staios

Staios will need to monitor the performance and career trajectory of these veterans. Their contributions on and off the ice are valuable, but their age and potential contract demands must be weighed against the team's long-term goals. For younger players like Meriläinen and Pinto, this season is crucial to determine their future roles and value within the organization.

The decisions made regarding these pending free agents will significantly impact the Senators' roster construction and cap flexibility moving forward. Staios will need to balance retaining valuable veterans with providing opportunities for younger players to develop and contribute.

With the 2026 free agency period on the horizon, the Ottawa Senators face important choices that will shape the team's competitiveness and future success.