Game Hub 17: Ottawa Senators vs Dallas Stars
In summer discussions, the idea of trading Drake Batherson for Jason Robertson surfaced, but Steve Staios and Michael Andlauer quickly ended those talks, showing they had no plans to part with Batherson. Andlauer’s reaction suggested displeasure with the trade rumors.
There are two possible reasons behind this: either the rumors were false and Batherson is genuinely valued as a key player, or the management was upset about the leak of potential trade talks. Regardless, Batherson remains with the Senators, proving that sometimes the best trades are the ones that never happen.
Currently, Batherson is outperforming Robertson, having scored two more goals despite playing three fewer games. The trade was proposed to bring in a more productive winger who could strengthen the top six and boost scoring. However, with Tkachuk injured, Batherson has risen to the challenge, moving to the first line with Stützle and contributing points while consistently generating scoring chances.
“Internal growth” was Staios’s slogan for the Sens this summer, and Batherson has delivered on that promise, vindicating management’s decision not to trade him for Robertson.
Meanwhile, questions linger about whether Nick Jensen's reduced ice-time will persist into a second consecutive game.
Summary: Batherson’s continued development has justified the Senators’ choice to keep him, proving their commitment to internal talent growth instead of pursuing external trades.
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