The Ottawa Senators have locked in a key piece of their roster, signing veteran forward Claude Giroux to a one-year contract extension. The deal carries a base salary of $2 million and could reach up to $4.75 million with potential bonuses. This move ensures that Giroux, who was set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, will remain in Ottawa for the 2025-26 season.
Giroux, at 37 years old, continues to be a valuable asset for the Senators, both on and off the ice. In the 2024-25 season, he played in 81 games, recording 15 goals and 35 assists for a total of 50 points. During the team's six playoff games, he added a goal and four assists. Beyond his offensive contributions, Giroux's leadership and experience are seen as crucial for the development of the Senators' younger players.
"Claude brings veteran leadership and a competitive edge to our group and has been a consistent presence on and off the ice,” said Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios. “We are excited to bring him back next season." Staios was able to finalize the deal after intensifying talks with Giroux’s agent on Sunday.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Giroux achieved several milestones. He played his 1200th NHL game on November 19 and recorded his 1100th career point on January 30 against the Washington Capitals. Additionally, Game 5 of the Senators' playoff series against the Toronto Maple Leafs marked his 100th career playoff game.
Giroux was drafted 22nd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He joined the Senators as a free agent prior to the 2022-23 season. Since then, he has played 245 games with the team, scoring 71 goals and assisting on 122 others, accumulating 193 points. In his NHL career of 1263 games, Giroux has 365 goals and 751 assists for 1116 points, along with 29 goals and 57 assists for 86 points in 101 playoff games.
By re-signing with the Senators, Giroux avoids free agency and the potential interest from other teams, such as the Montreal Canadiens. He is taking a pay cut from the $6.5 million he made in the previous three seasons, demonstrating his commitment to remaining in Ottawa. This contract extension allows Giroux to continue playing close to his hometown and contribute to the Senators' progress as they build on their recent playoff experience.
