The Ottawa Senators have been busy already this offseason making news rounding out their coaching staff. Previously, it was announced that Daniel Alfredsson will be back with the coaching staff. Today two assistant coaches were named to Travis Green’s staff. Mike Yeo and Nolan Baumgartner were announced today as further additions as assistant coaches. Furthermore, Ben Sexton is apart of the staff as well.
Bench bosses secured ✅
The #Sens have announced that Mike Yeo and Nolan Baumgartner will join Daniel Alfredsson and Ben Sexton as Assistant Coaches on Travis Green's staff. pic.twitter.com/m7KKayjgy2
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) June 4, 2024
The Ottawa Senators Coaching Staff is In Place
One thing is for sure, the Ottawa Senators coaching staff has plenty of NHL and professional hockey experience, whether as a player or coach. For example, look at Mike Yeo. He has been either an assistant coach or head coach at the AHL or NHL level every year since 2000. His highlight was five seasons as the Minnesota Wild main bench boss, making the playoffs thrice. In addition, Nolan Baumgartner played 17 seasons of professional hockey. Not bad for experience. He’s since been developing his coaching skills. He’s been in the Canucks organization as an assistant coach at the AHL and NHL level going back to 2012.
Even though the Ottawa Senators have been light in player personnel moves thus far this offseason, all these off-ice changes are important. Now that President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Steve Staios has his coaching staff set, he can set his focus on the players. Specifically, Staios can ramp up his efforts on the 2024 NHL Entry Draft and free agency.
Top Priorities for Steve Staios and His Management Staff
There have been plenty of rumours surrounding the Ottawa Senators on potential offseason moves. The team and the fanbase are starting to get tired of playoff prospects, only to stumble out of the gate, and not have any clear direction. It is clear that the Ottawa Senators need some upgrades to their lineup in order to make that leap as an organization. The thinking since owner Michael Andlauer has taken over, is getting the right people in place off the ice, will eventually translate into player, team, and ultimately playoff success.
In terms of trades, one of the hot topics has been on Jakob Chychrun. With one year left on a value contract, and an over abundance of left shot defencemen, the Sens could try to find a deal. Also, one of Staios’ big offseason priorities, since they hired Travis Green, and now his staff, is pending restricted free agent Shane Pinto. Once that is completed, they can really have a precise picture of how much money they have to spend on the open market.
Anything Big Coming for the NHL Draft
The priority target for the Ottawa Senators and Steve Staios, now shifts to the draft. The draft is set for late June, and the Sens have two first round picks. Yes, the picks have been floated around as part of trade rumours. However, currently, they still are the Sens to choose. We will leave you with two options that have recently shot up the draft board. Furthermore, they may be available when the Sens pick at seven. Those being Berkly Catton and Tij Iginla (yes, son of former NHL Jarome Iginla).
What Kind of Contract Will the Ottawa Senators Shane Pinto Sign?
Main photo credit: Vincent Carchietta – USA TODAY Sports
