The Alex DeBrincat Era Is Over in Ottawa, and There Doesn’t Have to Be a Bad Guy
The Alex DeBrincat era is over in Ottawa. The Senators traded the 24-year-old forward to the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday in exchange for three draft picks, including the seventh overall selection in the 2022 NHL Draft.
DeBrincat's trade comes as a surprise to many, as he was one of the few bright spots on a struggling Senators team. He had 41 goals and 37 assists in 74 games last season, and he was widely considered to be one of the most talented young players in the league.
There are a few reasons why the Senators traded DeBrincat. First, they are in a rebuild, and they need to acquire draft picks and prospects. Second, DeBrincat's contract is up after the 2022-23 season, and the Senators were not sure if they could afford to re-sign him.
The trade has been met with mixed reactions from fans. Some fans are upset that the Senators traded DeBrincat, while others understand the move and believe that it is in the best interests of the team.
There is no need to assign blame for the end of the DeBrincat era in Ottawa. The Senators are simply making a business decision, and DeBrincat is getting a chance to play for a contender. It is a win-win for both parties.
DeBrincat's Legacy in Ottawa
DeBrincat was drafted by the Senators in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 2017-18 season, and he quickly became one of the team's most productive players.
DeBrincat scored 28 goals and 38 assists in his rookie season, and he was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team. He followed that up with a 34-goal, 43-assist season in 2018-19.
DeBrincat's best season came in 2021-22, when he scored 41 goals and 37 assists. He was also named to the NHL All-Star Game for the first time.
DeBrincat's 2021-22 season was a breakout year for him. He established himself as one of the top goal scorers in the league, and he helped the Senators reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
DeBrincat's legacy in Ottawa will be that of a talented young player who helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time in years. He was a fan favorite, and he will be missed by many.
The Future for the Senators
The Senators are in a rebuild, and they are looking to acquire draft picks and prospects. The trade of DeBrincat should help them achieve that goal.
The Senators also have a number of young players who are still developing. These players include Brady Tkachuk, Thomas Chabot, and Josh Norris. The Senators are hoping that these players will be the core of their team for years to come.
The future is uncertain for the Senators, but they are making moves that they believe will help them become a contender again. The trade of DeBrincat is a big part of that plan.