Ottawa cuts loose three members of its 2021-22 roster

While the Ottawa Senators did take a small step forward this season, expectations were higher considering the talent the team has amassed over the last couple of years. As such, changes are needed over the summer, and the Sens are wasting no time getting down to business.

Ottawa has announced that forward Chris Tierney, who becomes a unrestricted free agent on July 1st, will not be offered a new contract. The 27-year-old former 2nd round pick, who was acquired in the Erik Karlsson trade with San Jose, took a big step back this year. Tierney was making $3.5 million, but managed just six goals and 18 points in 70 games, well below his career high of 48 points that came with the Sens in his first year with the team.

Meanwhile, Ottawa has also announced that restricted free agent defenceman Victor Mete will not be getting a qualifying offer from the team. The 23-year-old former fourth round pick of the Montreal Canadiens appears to be having a tough time finding a regular spot anywhere. He suited up for 37 games with the Senators this season, notching seven assists. Mete had asked to be traded away from Montreal in 2020, but the team could not find any takers. He was eventually picked up on waivers by Ottawa, and he seemed happy to be getting a new start elsewhere. However, at the trade deadline this season, it was revealed that Mete's agent had asked for, and received permission from Ottawa to find a trade partner. That didn't happen. Without a qualifying offer from the Sens, Mete will become a UFA.

It appears pending UFA Tyler Ennis will also be looking for a new team. Sens GM Pierre Dorion said the plan is to. Let him walk at free agency, although he indicated that decision may be revisited. The 32-year-old forward had eight goals and 24 points this season while making $900k.

Ottawa's next big decision over the offseason will be what to do with goaltender Matt Murray. Murray has two years left on his current contract with an annual cap hit of $6.25 million. This will make a trade very difficult to facilitate given Murray's mounting injuries and dismal performance this season. Without consistent goaltending, it will be tough for Ottawa to take the next step forward in its development.

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