Jason Gregor, a leading NHL analyst, has raised concerns that Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk might depart the team before the completion of their new arena. This prediction came during the August 16 episode of DFO Rundown, where Gregor speculated on Tkachuk’s future in relation to the Senators’ arena timeline and contract status.

Uncertainty Surrounding Tkachuk’s Future Amid Arena Developments

Gregor’s analysis highlights the uncertainty around whether the Senators’ new building at LeBreton Flats will be ready before Tkachuk’s contract expires. The team recently secured land near downtown Ottawa after reaching an agreement with the National Council Commission, signaling a major relocation from their current site on the city’s outskirts. Despite this progress, construction challenges remain, and there is no confirmed completion date for the arena.

With three years left on his current contract, Tkachuk is approaching unrestricted free agent (UFA) status, adding complexity to the team’s long-term plans. Gregor expressed doubts about Tkachuk remaining with the Senators through the opening of this new venue, stating,

“It’s interesting. A great question, because he got three years left in his contract. And so is it going to be three? Is that building done in three years? Probably not. So I’m going to actually sell.”

The prospect of Tkachuk moving on is intensified by his American nationality, suggesting that a return to a U.S.-based team could be likely. Gregor elaborated,

“I think, I think he is going to, by the time that building is done, he’ll have moved on, and that’s still, you know, we’re talking he’s got three years in his contract. But I just, I get a sense that he might be going to the US of A.”

Brady Tkachuk’s Contract and Career Path with the Senators

Selected fourth overall by Ottawa in the 2018 NHL Draft, Tkachuk quickly made an impact after debuting the next season. Following his entry-level contract, the Senators secured him with an eight-year, $57.56 million deal, currently entering its fifth year. This contract will expire in 2028, making Tkachuk a UFA at that point.

This season also marks the start of a full no-movement clause in Tkachuk’s contract, meaning the Senators cannot trade him without his consent. While the team has not indicated any desire to trade their captain, the potential for an extension looms, as Tkachuk becomes eligible to negotiate an extension starting July 1, 2027.

Until any extension or trade materializes, speculation about Tkachuk’s future will continue to fuel uncertainty in Ottawa, especially given the critical timing of the new arena’s development and his contract timeline.

Potential Implications for the Senators and the NHL

If Tkachuk does leave before the Senators’ new arena opens, it would represent a significant setback for the franchise as they aim to elevate their presence with the downtown relocation. His departure could impact team morale and local fan enthusiasm, especially since he is a key figure and captain. Conversely, if he remains through the transition and beyond, it would boost stability during a pivotal period.

The coming years will be decisive for both Brady Tkachuk and the Ottawa Senators. Beyond contract renewals and arena construction, Tkachuk’s choices may influence team dynamics within the NHL‘s competitive landscape and the Senators’ efforts to establish a stronger foothold in Ottawa’s core.