What happened: "It wasn't easy ... there's a lot of people I love there," Tkachuk said of leaving Ottawa. He disputed claims that he had spent a year and a half contemplating his departure, speaking with [Sportsnet's Luke Fox](https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/i-gave-absolutely-everything-i-had-brady-tkachuk-takes-issue-with-criticism/).

Why it matters: The Senators enter 2026-27 without their former captain after the trade that sent Tkachuk to the Panthers reshaped their roster.

What to watch: The upcoming season will test how Ottawa adjusts its lineup and leadership after Tkachuk's departure.