NHL Insider reveals an Eastern Conference team has willing to move a 'high pick or prospect' to trade locker room cancer

PUBLICATION

Josh tupper
January 1, 2023 (1:06 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Kevin Weekes has become the NHL's best Insider over the last year, so it's only fitting on New Year's Day that Weekes starts off the year with another massive piece of news. According to Weekes, the Ottawa Senators have reached the point of no return with Nikita Zaitsev. Zaitsev was acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs as part of a deal that sent Cody Ceci to Toronto.

Zaitsev had previously requested a trade out of Toronto, after he felt that he was under utilized by then coach, Mike Babock. Since that time Zaitsev has again requested a trade out of Ottawa. This marks Zaitsev's second team and second trade request, but given Zaitsev's awful performance and his salary, a deal has become difficult.

At this time there are no hockey trades available for the Senators and according to Kevin Weekes the Senators are now willing to part with a significant asset from their team to remove Zaitsev's toxic presence in the locker room.

I'm told @Senators are actively actively seeking a trade of D Zaitsev. They've granted permission to his representatives to speak with clubs. My understanding is Sens willing to move high draft pick or a prospect to accommodate trade.

Zaitsev has only 1 year remaining year on his contract, but due to his signing bonus on July 1st his contract is basically buyout proof. This situation is likely to cost the Senators a significant trade piece, but their open cap space could allow them to facilitate a much more important trade, for someone like Chychrun.