Unexpected Canadian team enters the Kiefer Sherwood sweepstakes, per NHL insider

The Ottawa Senators are at a familiar point as the NHL trade deadline is just over two months away. Sitting just outside a playoff spot, they're close enough to add help but are also very clear on what's missing.

NHL insider David Pagnotta reports that Ottawa's top priority is adding a secondary scorer up front. General manager Steve Staios has been monitoring the market for months, looking at options to strengthen the middle six forward group.

With cap space available and the team still in the playoff hunt, Ottawa is ready to act if the right player becomes available, but they won't rush into anything either.

The Senators' offence leans heavily on captain Brady Tkachuk and German star Tim Stützle. Beyond that top unit, scoring has been inconsistent, putting pressure on the first line each and every single night.

Adding another legitimate scoring threat capable of second-line minutes could shift the team's playoff outlook and truly push them into contention.

Financial flexibility is another advantage, as Ottawa has roughly $3.7 million in cap space, which gives Staios the ability to pursue rentals or players with some term.

Names like Canucks' Kiefer Sherwood, Blues' Brayden Schenn, and Flames' Blake Coleman have surfaced as potential fits, but the Senators are focused on balance and will not act out of desperation.

Pagnotta said they have checked in on these players and also spoke with Nashville about a few of their players. Ottawa isn't looking for a blockbuster, but rather, they want to improve the middle six, boost scoring, and protect their future.

With multiple targets and a playoff berth still within close reach, Staios is positioned to make a move that could define both this season and the growth of the core for the years that lie ahead.