The Ottawa Senators are gearing up for the NHL trade deadline with a focus on their internal roster rather than significant external moves. General Manager Steve Staios is keen on developing young talent amidst a tight salary cap situation, limiting their ability to make major additions. The team is eyeing the potential acquisition of a gritty forward, with Brandon Tanev of the Seattle Kraken being a candidate. However, trading their first-round pick appears unlikely, considering past commitments and future draft capital.

Regarding Claude Giroux, discussions about extending his contract have yet to take place, but both parties seem inclined to keep him, viewing him as a vital part of the team's future. With the Senators desperate for playoff success, their strategy appears to involve leveraging their current assets while fostering talent from within.

The NHL season heats up with a packed Saturday evening slate, and fantasy players have plenty to contemplate. Target the Ottawa Senators' top line against the San Jose Sharks, who have struggled defensively. Tim Stutzle is in peak form with a 10-game point streak and a favorable matchup. The Buffalo Sabres' line faces the Montreal Canadiens, also with defensive weaknesses, highlighting Tage Thompson's recent scoring surge. The Canadiens' top line, led by Nick Suzuki, is equally appealing with their offensive momentum.

Moving to defensemen, Jake Walman has been a standout for the Sharks, while Quinn Hughes returns strong after injury. Goaltender Lukas Dostal faces a struggling Blackhawks offense, making him a worthy target. Monitor injury news closely, as lineup changes may significantly affect performance. Utilize premium DFS tools for optimal lineup management and strategy adjustments.

At 37 years old, Claude Giroux continues to demonstrate his remarkable ability on the ice, currently playing for the Ottawa Senators. With 11 goals and 37 points over 54 games, Giroux is enjoying a prolific point streak, having scored in six consecutive games. His recent performance has become crucial for the Senators, who are vying for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. The Senators currently sit third in the Atlantic Division, facing intense competition from teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Detroit Red Wings.

Giroux's experience and skill, honed during his successful tenure with the Philadelphia Flyers, are proving invaluable as he aims to lead Ottawa into the playoffs. His 900 career points as a Flyer highlight his offensive prowess, and if he maintains this form, he can significantly enhance the Senators' postseason aspirations.

Brandon Hagel's decisive goal early in the third period propelled the Tampa Bay Lightning to a hard-fought 4-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators, ending their five-game win streak. The Lightning's offensive efforts were complemented by goals from Luke Glendening, Nikita Kucherov, and Ryan McDonagh, alongside Andrei Vasilevskiy's 25 saves. Ottawa's Michael Amadio, Claude Giroux, and Drake Batherson contributed goals but fell short.

The matchup saw a see-saw battle, with Ottawa initially leading after Amadio's power-play goal. However, Tampa Bay quickly responded, tying the game and pushing ahead. Despite Ottawa’s resilience, highlighted by Thomas Chabot's two assists and a strong performance from Linus Ullmark in goal, they couldn't maintain their early advantage.

Brandon Hagel's early third-period goal propelled the Tampa Bay Lightning to a 4-3 victory over the Ottawa Senators, ending Ottawa's five-game winning streak. The Lightning showcased their offensive depth with goals from Luke Glendening, Nikita Kucherov, and Ryan McDonagh, while goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves to secure the win.

The game saw Ottawa initially take the lead with a power-play goal from Michael Amadio, but Tampa Bay quickly responded. Kucherov's power-play goal and Glendening's quick goal in the second period demonstrated the Lightning's resilience. Ottawa fought back with goals from Claude Giroux and Drake Batherson, but Hagel's decisive goal ultimately sealed the game for Tampa.