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Ottawa Senators NHL Rumours and Why Stutzle is Ready to Exceed Expectations

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Some of the Ottawa Senators were chatty at the welcome back event to effectively put an end to summer, and kickoff the beginnings of a shiny, new NHL season. Yesterday was the club’s charity Open golf tournament. With it, centre Tim Stutzle and general manager Steve Staios had a chance to shake off the cobwebs and do an interview. So, let’s dive in and try to summarize what was revealed, in today’s edition of NHL Rumours.

NHL Rumours from Tim Stutzle’s Media Availability at Charity Golf Event

The main subject of Stutzle’s discussion was the heightened expectations around the club. This has brought a new sense of optimism. “Everybody came in early,” Stutzle stated, “We’ve been grinding as a group, and just trying to take that next step.” He seemed excited by the prospects of the group being able to continue to develop after last year’s successful campaign. A message we heard at the end of the season, but Stutzle was reiterating how much fun it was. When referencing the high expectations, he made it clear that it wouldn’t be easy.

He narrowed in on the goals and expectations. He was suggesting that they want to try to progress beyond the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs this year and beyond. “The next step is in our room…Steve has done a phenomenal job to support our group.” It seems he was really trying to take ownership, accountability, and a leadership stance, taking the perspective that it is up to the players now.

One way he shows leadership, is by doing it by example. Stutzle’s messaging was that he seems very dedicated to imrpoving his game and doing what it takes.

How Can Stutzle Get it Done, Individually

When asked what he did to try to improve, he was very comprehensive in his response. He started it by “most importantly I got to be more of a shooter too.” So, you know it is on his mind to show his 39-goal campaign was no one-trick-pony. But then he continued on what he wanted to improve. In addition, he mentioned his physical game, and felt when he was physical that he played better overall. Also, no surprise, but he wants to improve upon his faceoff taking abilities.

Then there was more, too. He wanted to work on being able to keep offensive zone puck possession and at the same time, playing smarter in the o-zone. Sheesh, what didn’t he want to improve? Well, defence? No, he talked about that, too. Realizing that ultimately it is about the team, that is kind of how he put it. He looks to keep getting better defensively, and that is what would be better for his team.

Needless to say, it is quite the long list of things to improve. Here’s to hoping he doesn’t put too much pressure on himself, and realizing that it is about your team contributions, and getting those Ws when it counts the most.

One Rumour Surrounding Stutzle’s 2024-25 Season

One of his more rumour-type comments, was his answer to how he was feeling. “Probably the best I felt in a long time.” He continued on to mention that he “probably shouldn’t have played in the World Championships after the playoffs.” Not to suggest he was perhaps nursing injury, rather more about the timing of the tournament. It made sense, too. You finish a long NHL season, capped off by your first NHL playoff experience. Then, he had a lull, waiting to join his National Team Germany, before suiting up. Just a long hard, grind of a season. In any sense, the fact he is ready to go for the start of 2025-26, means great things for Sen fans.

An Update on a Senator RFA

Also, as part of league-wide NHL Rumours, he was asked about Alex Formenton. Formenton, who was recently cleared in the high profile Canada Junior Team sexual assault case, is a Sens restricted free agent. He recently just signed in Swizterland, on a three-and-a-half month contract, to try and get back in playing shape. Somewhat indication of preparation of a return to NHL hockey. Stutzle mentioned that during the court process, they weren’t allowed to talk to him. He finished by saying that he would like to “wish him all the best.”

Meanwhile, GM Staios was also quizzed on the player. However, based on what we have heard from league representatives, there is no word on whether Formenton, and those who were involved in the case along with him, will be cleared to return to the NHL. Therefore, that is to say at this time, that there is no further update to provide. In other words, it makes sense Staios wouldn’t comment on something, that is essentially a league issue anyway. Staios replied simply with ‘no comment.‘ When asked specifically a follow-up, if he were to become available, would the Sens consider signing him, he again said, ‘no comment.’ 

The final topic of discussion was also from Staios. He suggested that the Sens would be active in seeking professional tryout contracts ahead of training camp. This is nothing too groundbreaking. Normally teams will carry a couple PTOs into camp, just to have their numbers up. It further allows them to adhere to league requirements of veteran players in exhibition games. With some NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement changes taking affect, some will impact exhibition hockey. Players with over 100 games of NHL experience, can only suit up for a maximum two pre-season contests. So, stay tuned, as the Sens may be looking to take care of housekeeping, before the regular season action kicks off.

Main Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

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