Claude Giroux leaning towards next NHL destination?

Earlier on Thursday, insider Pierre LeBrun reported that Ottawa Senators have emerged as a “legitimate option” for Claude Giroux.

It is well-documented that Giroux grew up and played his minor hockey in the area and he could be tempted to return. Then, bombshell ahead of the Draft: the Senators acquired Alex DeBrincat from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for the No. 7 and No. 39 overall picks in the 2022 NHL Draft along with a third-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft.

If actions do speak louder than words, it feels like this one might convince Giroux to sign with the Senators, who will finally manage to claw out of the rebuilding stage and contend for a playoff spot.

As LeBrun points out, the Panthers are hoping to bring Giroux back, but the club has just $3 million in projected cap space. It just won’t be enough to keep Giroux, who proved to have much more in the tank, recording 65 points in 75 games split between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Panthers this past season.

The Edmonton Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes are also interested in signing Giroux, but Ottawa might have gotten the edge with this significant trade for DeBrincat on Thursday.

So… does Giroux go back home?