Claude Giroux, the former captain of the Philadelphia Flyers, is embarking on a noteworthy season as he enters the final year of his three-year, $19.5 million deal with the Ottawa Senators, signed in the 2022 NHL Offseason. As he approaches the end of this contract, Giroux becomes a key player to watch.
The Ottawa Senators are eager to advance in their long-term rebuilding process and secure a playoff spot. Despite recent high-profile additions, the team has struggled with a seven-season playoff drought. The acquisition of star goaltender Linus Ullmark this summer is a significant move aimed at breaking this streak. Should improvements in goal not suffice, Giroux could become a prominent figure in trade discussions as the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline nears.
Giroux holds a full no-movement clause in his contract, giving him complete control over any potential trade. However, if the Senators continue to perform poorly and are positioned low in the standings, he might consider a trade to a contender. This is not unprecedented, as players with no-movement clauses, like Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko, have previously accepted trades to competitive teams.
Should Giroux be available at the trade deadline and open to a move, he would attract considerable interest. Even at 36, he remains an influential top-six winger, having scored 21 goals and 64 points in 82 games last season.
The upcoming season will be pivotal for Giroux. If the Senators make significant progress and contend for the playoffs, he is likely to stay. Conversely, if the team remains among the NHL’s weaker clubs and Giroux is not extended, expect considerable speculation about his future as the trade deadline approaches.
