Drake Batherson has become Andrew Campbell's next major concern as another Ottawa Senators cornerstone faces an uncertain future.
Brady Tkachuk's reported summer trade request already shook the organization. Now Batherson's contract situation threatens to strip another proven scorer from Ottawa's top six.
The Senators reportedly aren't close to an extension with Batherson, who can become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026-27 season.
That creates immediate pressure on general manager Steve Staios. Waiting too long could leave Ottawa negotiating against an open market capable of pushing Batherson beyond a $10 million annual salary.
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Batherson has earned that leverage. He produced 33 goals and 71 points across 79 regular-season games, giving Ottawa a dangerous right-shot winger with power-play value.
He also carries a $4.975 million cap hit for one more season. That contract remains valuable, but its expiry date now hangs over every roster decision.
Ottawa cannot afford another major exit
Losing Tkachuk through a trade would already remove the emotional centre of the locker room. Losing Batherson soon after would tear another major piece from the Senators' offensive identity.
This isn't only about replacing goals. Batherson has developed chemistry inside Ottawa's top six and finished the season with 13 power-play goals.
Those players aren't easy to replace in free agency. They cost money, term and often valuable assets when acquired through trade.
Ottawa must decide whether Batherson belongs beside its remaining core at a major salary or whether his trade value should be tested before leverage shifts completely to the player.
The risk is allowing the situation to drift. Once Batherson reaches the final months of his deal without an extension, every rival will know Ottawa is facing a narrowing window.
Campbell also needs clarity before training camp. Coaches build lines, special teams and leadership roles around players expected to remain part of the plan.
The Senators spent years trying to move from rebuilding into contention. A summer featuring Tkachuk's requested exit and Batherson's stalled talks would push the organization toward another unwanted reset.
Staios now faces a defining call. Ottawa can pay Batherson like a core scorer, move him for a major return, or risk watching another star control the ending.
Should the Senators trade Drake Batherson before his value drops?
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