The 38-year-old Claude Giroux told his agent Pat Brisson that he wants to play another season and specifically in Ottawa if he continues his career.
Giroux’s Stated Intentions
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen reported that Giroux spent his past four seasons with the Senators and remains unwilling to retire.
Agent Pat Brisson confirmed the forward’s plans in a text message stating he wants to play for sure.
Giroux stated on exit day that any return would occur only in Ottawa, narrowing the market before negotiations begin.
The sides have not yet discussed contract terms, yet both parties expect a swift agreement once talks open.
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic independently verified the same desire on Monday, confirming Giroux’s preference for one more year.
This alignment of public statements and private confirmations removes doubt about Giroux’s preferred destination.
Contract History and Expectations
Last season Giroux signed for a $2 million base salary plus up to $2.75 million in games-played and playoff bonuses.
The bonus structure included $250,000 each for reaching 20, 30 and 60 games played.
Additional incentives paid $250,000 if Ottawa reached the playoffs and he appeared in 50 games, plus escalating amounts through the Stanley Cup rounds.
A similar one-year deal would replicate the low-risk, performance-based model that suited both sides in 2025-26.
Giroux’s four prior seasons in Ottawa produced consistent production and veteran stability that the club has come to rely upon.
The pending UFA status places the decision squarely in the team’s hands before July 1, 2026.
Impact on Senators’ Roster
Giroux’s return would preserve continuity among the forward group at a time when Ottawa seeks deeper playoff success.
His presence contrasts with the goaltending questions the club must still resolve behind Linus Ullmark.
By locking in the veteran forward early, Ottawa can allocate remaining cap space and draft assets toward other needs.
The decision also sends a signal to younger players that established leadership intends to stay for the next competitive push.
No other team has emerged as a serious suitor, further simplifying the path to re-signing.
The combination of on-ice value and off-ice stability makes Giroux’s extension a logical next step.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.