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Ottawa Senators Organization Looks to Future
Following the conclusion of yet another season without playoff hockey for the Ottawa Senators, team president and general manager Steve Staios is taking steps to reshape the team for a different outcome next year. In a recent media conference in Ottawa, Staios discussed the imminent changes that the Senators organization will undergo, with the primary focus being the search for a new head coach.
Search for New Head Coach
Staios revealed that they had engaged with several individuals and are actively expanding their list of potential candidates for the head coaching position. He emphasized the importance of taking sufficient time to evaluate all available options thoroughly. Although the team is prepared to act promptly if the ideal candidate emerges, they remain in the process of reviewing their extensive list of contenders.
Despite speculation, Staios definitively ruled out franchise icon Daniel Alfredsson from consideration for the head coaching role. While Alfredsson had recently transitioned into a coaching role within the team, Staios affirmed that the former captain was not currently in the running for the head coach position.
Coaching Transition in the 2023-24 Season
After the mid-season dismissal of D.J. Smith, Jacques Martin assumed the head coaching duties for the remainder of the 2023-24 campaign. Staios commended Martin for his contributions to the team’s growth and professionalism during his tenure. However, it was clarified that Martin would not continue as the head coach for the upcoming season.
Staios expressed his gratitude towards Martin and announced that the seasoned coach would transition into a consultant role within the organization. He highlighted the valuable experience and insights that Martin could offer to the coaching staff and management team, affirming that the decision aimed to maintain a strong hockey IQ within the organization.
Future Coaching Staff
While details regarding the assistant coaches remained uncertain, Staios assured that their roles would be contingent on the appointment of the new head coach. Acknowledging the dedication and talent of the coaching staff, Staios signaled openness to welcoming them back depending on the evolving needs of the organization.
Looking ahead, Staios underlined the importance of meticulous deliberation in the coaching selection process. While the team might consider hiring a new coach before the conclusion of the current season, the priority remains to identify the most suitable candidate to lead the Senators forward for the long term.
The Senators’ offseason promises to be a period of transformation as they strategize for a competitive resurgence in the upcoming season. By carefully navigating the coaching transition and assembling a cohesive support staff, the Ottawa Senators aim to forge a path towards playoff contention.
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