OTTAWA — Seconds after Ottawa Senators general manager Steve Staios was asked about opposing teams’ interests in his two new first-round picks, his phone went off.Staios was speaking at a news conference inside Canadian Tire Centre, less than 24 hours after trading the team’s captain at his request. The Senators received three first-round picks and a future second-round pick from the Florida Panthers in return for Brady Tkachuk, leaving some observers confused about the team’s future intentions. But, as Staios’ active phone indicated, those draft picks could soon be flipped for assets to help his team now.“It’s been robust since the deal happened,” Staios said of his post-trade communication with rival executives. “This team is moving in the right direction. I have no intention of this team taking a step back. We’re active, and we’re open.”So, what’s next for the Senators? Which players could they target with the picks they’ve acquired? And if the Senators really want to go all out, could they even tender an offer sheet thanks to the new cap space — over $25 million, according to PuckPedia — they’ve accumulated as a result?But not every player available might be willing to come to Ottawa, and that’s a hurdle worth looking into with some potential trade targets. Here are eight who make some measure of sense for Staios and the Senators in their post-Tkachuk era.Brady Tkachuk to the Florida PanthersSean McIndoe and Sean GentilleMason McTavishAge: 23Team: Anaheim DucksPosition: C Shoots: Left 2025-26 statistics: 17 goals, 41 points, 75 GPContract: 6 years, $42 million ($7 million cap hit, UFA 2031) McTavish, who grew up in Carp, Ont., has been the subject of trade speculation since last summer, when he was figuring out a new contract. Despite ultimately signing a six-year deal, he appears to be an option for teams on the trade market. Offensively, McTavish’s ability to produce in high-danger areas could make him appealing. However, there are questions about his foot speed and work away from the puck. If the Ducks were willing to move him, McTavish has no trade protection on his contract and would be leaned upon as a top-six winger in Ottawa.Jordan KyrouAge: 28Team: St. Louis Blues Position: RWShoots: R2025-26 statistics: 18 goals, 46 points, 72 GPContract: 8 years, $65 million ($8.1 million cap hit, UFA 2031) A three-time 30-goal scorer whom the Sens would count on to return to form, Kyrou would find no better place to try than on Tim Stützle’s wing. His pace and vision would be seen as incredible assets on an Ottawa team that could use an injection of offence. However, it remains to be seen whether Kyrou would waive his no-trade clause to come to Canada, which could be a big hold-up for all parties involved. Also, what’s his role on a Blues team that seems to be interested in retooling rather than a full-scale rebuild?Robertson is a restricted free agent this summer. (Jerome Miron / Imagn Images)Jason RobertsonAge: 26Team: Dallas StarsPosition: LW/RWShoots: L2025-26 statistics: 45 goals, 96 points, 82 GPContract: RFA 2026 (arbitration-eligible) One of the NHL’s best offensive weapons is a restricted free agent this summer, a three-time 40-goal scorer and one-time 100-point-getter. The Stars have work to do to keep him under contract with limited cap space, and he’s also arbitration-eligible. Robertson has been a popular Senators trade target among fans for some time. However, according to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston, Robertson might not want to commit long-term to Ottawa. So, even if the Senators put together a competitive offer to acquire him, there’s no guarantee he’d want to stick around.Pavel DorofeyevAge: 25Team: Vegas Golden KnightsPosition: LW/RWShoots: L2025-26 statistics: 37 goals, 64 points, 82 GPContract: RFA 2026 (arbitration-eligible) The Golden Knights are another team with a prominent, arbitration-eligible restricted free agent to sign and limited cap space to conduct their business. The Russian is coming off back-to-back 30-goal seasons and added 12 goals in the 2026 playoffs, making him a prime offer-sheet candidate for NHL teams. The Senators’ ears should be perked up for the 25-year-old’s availability, whether through an offer sheet or a trade.