Ottawa Senators Acquire Enforcer Kurtis MacDermid From New Jersey Devils in Player Trade

The Ottawa Senators have traded enforcer Zack MacEwen to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Kurtis MacDermid, a move aimed at adding toughness and physicality to the team ahead of the regular season. MacDermid, a 6-foot-5 left-winger known for his gritty play and fighting ability, carries a $1.15 million cap hit through 2027, which some view as a financial risk given his limited recent game appearances. Despite a modest scoring record, MacDermid's experience, including being part of the 2021-22 Stanley Cup-winning Colorado Avalanche, and his physical presence are seen as valuable for mentoring younger players and protecting skill players on the Senators. The trade also sends a message to Atlantic Division rivals, particularly the Montreal Canadiens, that the Senators will not tolerate being pushed around, following a physical preseason game that featured numerous penalty minutes and fights. Ottawa's management and coaching staff emphasize that while fighting is declining in the NHL, physicality remains essential, especially in playoff contention. MacDermid's addition addresses a team need for toughness without relying solely on captain Brady Tkachuk, potentially enhancing the Senators' competitiveness and resilience.