Those who believed that Patrick Roy would act as head coach of the Ottawa Senators soon will have to give up the idea: general manager Pierre Dorion confirmed on Tuesday the return of pilot DJ Smith and his assistants next season.
Thus, this should put to rest the rumors sending Roy to the federal capital. The name “Casseau” has been mentioned by the media in relation to head coach jobs in the National League in recent weeks, since the main interested party left the Quebec Remparts and has three years’ experience as a coach of the Colorado Avalanche.
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However, after a discussion with the new owner of the franchise, Dorion kept the staff in place, even if the Senators were unable to reach the playoffs in 2023. “I made the recommendation to the board and I consulted Michael Andlauer”, specified the DG during a press briefing with the media.
Smith will enter a fifth season in charge of the club and has never guided it to the playoffs to date.
Expected movement
Furthermore, Dorion is working diligently to find a taker for forward Alex DeBrincat, who refused to sign a long-term contract with the club. Eligible this year for autonomy with compensation, the former Chicago Blackhawks will have to submit to the salary arbitration process, which is not likely to improve his relations with the staff. Although he has not requested a trade, the 25-year-old has a good chance of working elsewhere this fall.
DeBrincat had 27 goals and 39 assists for 66 points in 82 games last season.
In addition, the Quebecer Julien Gauthier will become free as the air on Saturday, because the Senators did not submit a qualifying offer to him. These retained their rights to Shane Pinto and Erik Brannstrom, among others.