After an impressive season that saw them clinch their first playoff appearance since 2017, the Ottawa Senators are looking to reach higher next season. The Senators have been trying to accomplish just that, as today they signed Washington Capitals center Lars Eller to a one-year deal worth $1.25 million.
Eller is a valuable veteran piece that the Senators are hoping can help them advance further in the playoffs next season after falling in six games to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round.
Eller has played for five different teams since his first NHL season in 2009-10, including the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, and Colorado Avalanche.
Last season with the Capitals, Eller recorded 10 goals, 12 assists, and 22 points in 63 games played.
With the addition of Eller, the Senators will be adding more depth at the center position for next season, which could be beneficial for them in the long run. Eller will be joining a center group that is led by Dylan Cozens and Shane Pinto.
Eller will be entering his 17th season in the NHL this year and will also be joining former Capitals teammate Nick Jenson in Ottawa.
In addition to playing for the Senators next season, Eller will also be playing for Denmark at the 2026 Winter Olympics after playing a key role in helping his country qualify for the tournament. Eller ranks third all-time among Danish NHL players in scoring with 424 career points, including 188 goals and 236 assists. His 1,116 career games in the NHL are also the most out of any Danish player.
