Plugging The Leaks: Ottawa Senators Keep A Tighter Lid On Possible Trade Discussions

During the 'Saturday Headlines' segment that runs during the second intermission of Hockey Night in Canada's broadcast, Elliotte Friedman shared a note that included the Ottawa Senators when discussing the league's trade market.

It should not come as a surprise to see the Senators linked to prospective personnel changes. The team's record has left something to be desired considering some of the underlying metrics, which, in turn, has spurred reports that the Senators have held internal conversations about potentially shaking up the core.

The Senators' front office has also developed a reputation for being deliberate and meticulous.

Given the circumstances, it would make sense for the Senators to perform due diligence and see what may or may not be available in the market.

According to Friedman, the Senators are not alone.

"I think there are some teams out there really looking," Friedman explained while describing the market. "I think Nashville's one of those teams. I think Ottawa's been careful just seeing what's out there.

"I don't get the sense they're jumping head-first into anything yet, but the Canucks have indicated, 'Yes, we're looking. But, we're not going to do anything because people think we're desperate.'"

The careful nature of things certainly fits with the characterizations of Ottawa's front office. It is interesting to see the Senators linked to the rumour mill these past few weeks, however. Again, it would make sense for the organization to gauge what is available.

At the same time, there is an element of irony because as much as its patience and deliberate nature are ascribed to this front office, there is a proportionate amount of secrecy behind its operations. When deals or important news drops, there often is no precursor.

This isn't the Pierre Dorion era, where leaks occurred regularly as the front office exchanged information with journalists to create leverage and favourable coverage.

Under general manager Steve Staios and new ownership, this guarded group protects their information and keeps their cards close to their chest. For the better part, gossip has stopped, and fans have grown accustomed to a different flow of information.

So, it is hard to read too much into the news that the Senators are actively listening to the league's respective trade channels. Given the league's parity and how many teams are within striking distance of a playoff spot, it should be a buyer's market right now. Assuming the Senators want to add rather than sell, that's not a market befitting their situation - which probably is not good news for fans clamouring for a significant shakeup.

With a limited supply of options, it would make sense for the Senators to shop to improve their margins. The team needs to get more production and performance from its depth.