NHL Rumors: Giroux to Senators, Carlsson Fallout, Dach’s Odd Arb Battle

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Ottawa Senators appear to be holding on to Claude Giroux despite outside interest. The former coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs spoke about Mitch Marner’s departure, the Montreal Canadiens find themselves in a unique arbitration situation with Kirby Dach, and the Anaheim Ducks remain at the center of escalating offer-sheet drama involving Leo Carlsson.

Senators Keep Giroux Amid Heavy Interest

The Ottawa Senators have secured a key veteran presence, signing Claude Giroux to a one-year deal carrying a $2 million cap hit with up to $5 million in performance bonuses. The contract includes a full no-move clause, but the deal has yet to be officially announced by the organization.

Giroux, 38, drew significant interest across the league, including reported pushes from the Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers. There was even late speculation about a potential reunion with the Philadelphia Flyers before talks intensified between Ottawa management and Giroux’s camp. Ultimately, he chose to stay where he was.

It sounds like Giroux is getting more guaranteed money, with bonuses tied to games played and playoff success.

Maple Leafs Still Feeling Marner’s Absence

The Toronto Maple Leafs are still dealing with the aftermath of Mitch Marner’s departure, and former head coach Craig Berube’s recent comments shed new light on just how impactful that loss was. According to Berube, Marner wasn’t just a top producer—he was the emotional engine of the team.

Marner, who joined the Vegas Golden Knights in a sign-and-trade last summer, posted another strong season offensively. However, his absence in Toronto appears to have left a leadership void that the team struggled to fill. Berube described him as vocal, energetic, and someone who constantly pushed teammates to elevate their play.

While some fans were ready to move on from Marner, the reality is that replacing a player who contributes both on the scoresheet and in the room is no easy task.

Canadiens, Dach Headed for Arbitration Battle

A unique contract situation is unfolding between the Montreal Canadiens and forward Kirby Dach. After being issued a $4 million qualifying offer, Dach opted to file for salary arbitration—but the reasoning goes beyond just money.

Montreal’s offer was a two-way deal, meaning Dach would only earn his full salary at the NHL level, with the possibility of a significant pay cut if assigned to the AHL. That’s uncommon for an established NHL player, but Dach’s injury history played a major role. He has appeared in just 154 games over the past three seasons, raising durability concerns within the organization.

By filing for arbitration, Dach is likely aiming to secure a one-way contract and guarantee NHL-level pay. However, there’s some risk involved. Analytical projections suggest his market value could come in below the $4 million mark, meaning a ruling could potentially work against him.

For Montreal, this is a calculated use of leverage. For Dach, it’s about protecting his role and financial security.

Ducks Facing Mounting Pressure in Offer Sheet Saga

The Anaheim Ducks continue to navigate a tense situation surrounding Leo Carlsson and a massive offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers. According to Elliotte Friedman, the situation has already shifted control away from Ducks management, putting them in a reactive position.

Reports indicate Anaheim attempted to preemptively negotiate a deal in the $12.5 million AAV range before the offer sheet materialized. While the expectation around the league is that the Ducks will ultimately match, there’s still uncertainty about how the situation will unfold—and what long-term impact it may have on the organization.

Friedman seemed to indicate that Verbeek has lost control of his own team, while another report suggests that ownership might have to throw their way of doing business out the window if they intend to match and follow up the Carlsson deal with similar ones for their other RFAs.