Sens pull Namestnikov from the lineup just before game time

The Ottawa Senators have removed forward and pending unrestricted free agent Vladimir Namestnikov from their lineup for tonight's game against the visiting Winnipeg Jets amidst swirling trade rumors. 

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The 27 year old Namestnikov has 13 goals and 25 points in 54 games with the Sens this season and could be a useful depth forward for a number of Stanley Cup contenders. In particular he's been linked to the Philadelphia Flyers, New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Dallas Stars, Winnipeg Jets and Nashville Predators. 

Ironically though, Jean-Gabriel Pageau has NOT been taken out of the Sens' lineup, despite also finding himself at the center of trade speculation.

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Reading between the lines a bit here, it seems like Sens GM Pierre Dorion believes he has a potential deal in place for Namestnikov, but not yet with Pageau. Stay tuned, Sens fans.