Ottawa Senators Re‑sign Claude Giroux to One‑Year Deal for 2026‑27 Season

Ottawa Senators announced a one‑year contract with veteran forward Claude Giroux for the 2026‑27 NHL season, sealing a $2 million base salary that could rise to $5 million with bonuses. The deal was confirmed by GM Steve Staios on July 7, 2026, reinforcing a roster that currently sits 6th in the Eastern Conference with a 44‑27 record and a one‑game winning streak.

What are the terms of the new contract?

The agreement runs for a single season and includes a $2 million base salary. Performance bonuses can push the total value to $5 million. Staios highlighted Giroux’s professionalism and veteran presence, noting the forward’s willingness to stay shows his belief in the club’s direction.

How did Giroux perform last season?

Giroux played all 82 games in 2025‑26, marking the 10th time in his career he missed none. He logged 327 of 328 regular‑season games since joining Ottawa in 2022‑23 and appeared in every one of the team’s ten playoff contests. The 38‑year‑old posted 49 points, ranking sixth on the Senators’ scoring list, and posted a league‑leading 63.1% face‑off success rate. His +20 plus‑minus rating was second‑best on the roster, trailing only Artem Zub.

Why is Giroux’s re‑signing important for Ottawa?

Beyond the numbers, Giroux brings a steady hand to the locker room. He’s the fourth‑most‑used forward on the penalty kill and the fifth on the power play, offering depth in critical situations. His experience across 19 NHL seasons and 1,165 career points (60th all‑time among skaters) gives the Senators a reliable two‑way presence as they chase a playoff spot.

What does this mean for the Senators’ future?

Staios believes Giroux’s decision to return signals confidence in the team’s culture. "Being around those guys for four years, we got really close. This team feels like a family," Giroux said. The contract adds a seasoned leader to a squad that’s already showing momentum, sitting 6th in the East and riding a one‑game win streak. With the upcoming season, Ottawa hopes his face‑off mastery and situational play will help convert close games into victories.

How can fans follow the Senators?

Fans can stay updated via the official website at www.ottawasenators.com, follow the club on X @Senators, like the Facebook page, and track behind‑the‑scenes content on Instagram at senators. The organization encourages supporters to engage as the team prepares for another competitive campaign.