In recent years, the Ottawa Senators have undergone a significant transformation under the leadership of General Manager Steve Staios. This transformation has turned the team from pretenders into legitimate contenders, showcasing a meticulous rebuilding process that began over eight years ago.
Staios’ Leadership Marks a Turning Point
Steve Staios took the reins of the Senators during a challenging time. In his first two full seasons, he has successfully cultivated a winning culture, leading the team to their highest point total since the 2014-15 season. This achievement included back-to-back seasons with over 97 points for the first time since 2006.
Building a Stronger Team Culture
Central to this success is Staios’ commitment to establishing a solid team culture. He emphasized the importance of making thoughtful decisions that align with the long-term goals of the franchise. “My job is to set this group up, set the culture,” Staios stated in an interview.
- Hired Coach: Staios chose Travis Green over popular option Craig Berube, believing Green would be a good fit for the team’s future.
- Veteran Acquisitions: He brought in experienced players like Nick Cousins and Lars Eller to strengthen the young core.
Strategic Moves Enhance Team Performance
Staios also demonstrated strategic acumen during the draft by making key trades that bolstered the roster. He traded down two spots in the first round to gain an extra third-round pick, which helped acquire Jordan Spence, crucial in covering for injured players Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot.
Proving Doubters Wrong
As the Senators prepare for the playoffs, they face formidable opponents like the Carolina Hurricanes. However, the team’s strong performance—dominating in shots and consistent play—has many predicting success in the postseason.
Players like Sanderson and Fabian Zetterlund have echoed sentiments about the camaraderie within the team, referring to their strong bond as “25 best friends” working together.
Weathering the Storms
The season has not been without challenges. Staios handled issues such as personal struggles faced by players, including goaltender Linus Ullmark, with a steady hand. In January, he made a pivotal move by acquiring James Reimer, who provided essential support during a difficult stretch.
A Buyer at the Deadline
Even when the team sat close to the bottom of the Eastern Conference, Staios chose to buy rather than sell at the trade deadline. He brought in Warren Foegele, who quickly made an impact, scoring six goals in 21 games, assisting the Senators’ push toward the playoffs.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the franchise’s journey, Staios expressed pride in the progress made. Despite challenges and a muddied draft history, the steps forward taken under his guidance have positioned the Senators for future success. “We’re never satisfied, but we’re certainly moving in the right direction,” he noted.
As the Senators prepare for what lies ahead in the playoffs, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the team’s transformation will play out on the ice.
