The clock is ticking, and the pressure is mounting as the Ottawa Senators are yet to finalize a deal with alternate captain Claude Giroux, just ten days before the NHL's free agency frenzy.

Despite ongoing negotiations, the 37-year-old winger remains unsigned, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his future with the team. Giroux, who joined the Senators in 2022 with the aim of steering the franchise back to playoff glory, indeed played a crucial role in their postseason run in 2025. The Senators are optimistic about the possibility of him returning next season.

During a recent summit at the Canadian Tire Centre, Dave Poulin, the Senators' senior vice-president of hockey operations, emphasized Giroux's significance to the team and community. "He’s a huge part of our hockey team, and he’s brought so much to the community. We love Claude Giroux as an Ottawa Senator, and he loves being an Ottawa Senator. Negotiations continue; that’s all I have,” Poulin stated.

Steve Staios, the team’s president of hockey operations and general manager, echoed similar sentiments, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to retaining Giroux.

As free agency looms, the urgency in negotiations is palpable. Reports suggest that the Montreal Canadiens could be lurking as potential suitors, adding to the stakes for the Senators. However, with both Giroux eager to stay in Ottawa and the organization keen on keeping him, it seems a deal is within reach.

The anticipated contract is likely to be for one year, and the discussions have revolved around a base salary comparable to Ottawa winger David Perron’s final year figure of $4 million. Giroux wrapped up last season with impressive stats: 15 goals and 35 assists for a total of 50 points in 81 games.

Insider insights indicate that Giroux’s camp is aiming for a base salary around $3 million, supplemented by bonuses that could boost his earnings to between $4.5 million and $5 million.

While rumors swirl, including reports from Hockey Night in Canada about a potential bonus structure, concrete agreement on the base salary has yet to be reached, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. Will the Senators step up and secure this fan-favorite, or will they let him slip away?