Senators Embrace Philadelphia Ties with Key Re-signings and Home Opener

It’s been an oddly Philadelphia-themed offseason for Senators fans, marked by significant player moves and a highly anticipated home opener. The excitement began with the re-signing of Nick Cousins, a former Flyer who spent his first four professional seasons in Philadelphia. The Senators secured Cousins with a two-year contract worth $1.59 million per season, reinforcing their commitment to building a competitive roster.

Later that same day, General Manager Steve Staios addressed the team’s backup goalie situation by re-signing RFA Samuel Ersson, who spent the last five seasons with the Flyers. This strategic move adds depth to the Senators’ goaltending lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season.

In a twist of speculation, veteran free agent Claude Giroux, who had been rumored to return to Philadelphia, ultimately decided to remain with the Senators for a fifth season. During a Zoom media availability, Giroux expressed his excitement about staying in Ottawa, emphasizing the strong bonds he has developed with his teammates over the last four years. “I chose to come back because I want to be here. I’m excited to be an Ottawa Senator,” he stated. “The team feels like a family. I just care for those players.”

On July 7, the Senators officially announced Giroux’s new contract, a one-year deal that carries a base salary of $2 million, with potential performance bonuses of up to $3 million. These bonuses are tied to games played and the team’s playoff success, showcasing the organization’s investment in the veteran forward.

Giroux’s future had been a hot topic following the opening of free agency, with inaccurate reports suggesting he had agreed to return to the Flyers, stirring speculation in Philadelphia. However, the 38-year-old seems content to continue his career in Ottawa, the city he has called home since relocating from Hearst, Ontario, at age 14.

As Giroux solidifies his position on the team, another player with Philadelphia connections is set to join the Senators. Goaltender Samuel Ersson is expected to begin the season as Ottawa’s backup behind Linus Ullmark, having signed a two-year contract averaging $2.2 million annually. Ersson, moved from Philadelphia in a deal that saw the Flyers acquire Joseph Woll and Simon Benoit from the Toronto Maple Leafs, expressed his eagerness for a fresh start with the Senators.

With Ersson now part of the fold, the Senators’ goaltending lineup consists of three players on NHL contracts, including Leevi Meriläinen, who also signed a one-year deal earlier this offseason. While Meriläinen remains in the picture, Ersson appears poised to secure the backup role as training camp approaches.

Fans won’t have to wait long to see these changes in action, as the NHL announced that Ottawa’s home opener will take place against the Philadelphia Flyers on October 8 at Canadian Tire Centre. The Senators will likely start the season with a two- or three-game road trip, with the full regular season schedule set to be released soon. As the NHL season kicks off on September 29, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting year for the Senators and their fans.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.