The Ottawa Senators have defied the NHL’s upcoming seven-year contract limit by locking in forward Drake Batherson to an eight-year extension worth $10.75 million annually, including $30 million in signing bonuses. The move comes just days before the league’s new collective bargaining agreement takes effect, raising questions about how teams will navigate the restrictions moving forward. With the deal already finalized, the Senators have secured a key player under a long-term pact that exceeds the standard term allowed under the new rules. The contract’s structure and financial details suggest a significant investment in Batherson’s future with the team.

The Ottawa Senators have made a major decision before the NHL’s next collective bargaining agreement, and its seven-year limit on contracts, kicks into effect on Wednesday. The team has announced that forward Drake Batherson has been signed to an eight-year contract extension carrying a $10.75MM AAV. The deal will have $30MM in signing bonuses over […]