What once looked to be a perfect partnership has apparently soured. According to reports circulating online, Jakob Chychrun is no longer interested in remaining with the Ottawa Senators, and it's looking very likely he will be dealt before the trade deadline.
In March of 2023, the Sens exchanged a conditional first-round pick, and two second-rounders with the Arizona in order to get Jakob Chychrun. Chychrun and Ottawa seemed like a perfect fit at the time, with the Senators supposedly ready to become a playoff competitor, while Chychrun would finally get a chance to really showcase his talents, something that was difficult for a defenceman. Then this season happened, and things went south in a hurry for Ottawa, with the team currently third last in the NHL, ahead of only the San Jose Sharks and Chicago Blackhawks in terms of points. That has reportedly killed any interest Chychrun had in signing an extension with Ottawa before his contract runs out next year.
Chychrun has shown he's an impact player, and will likely fetch a hefty raise above his current $4.6 million per season on his next deal, wherever it happens to be. The Sens could be patient and wait until next season. However, it's unlikely Chychrun would be very happy with that considering the direction the team is headed in.