The Ottawa Senators have a reputation for being a cheap budget team. However, times are changing in Ottawa as Melnyk has begun to pay more.

For the first time in years the Ottawa Senators are spending above 70 million dollars. In fact they are now top 10 in the league in terms of payroll. Now that the Sens appear to be a contender, Melnyk is willing to pay a little extra to help the team win. While it is true that Melnyk got some much deserved criticism for his apparent disregard for the necessity to spend in the past, he has always said that if the team believed they could win than he would spend the extra money to help them.

Building A Contender

Now that Melnyk is willing to spend the extra money to help the team contend they have to make sure they spend their money wisely. There’s already the issue of overpaying the likes of Bobby Ryan and Dion Phaneuf. While both are good players and add to the team there’s no doubt that they’re overpaid. As of now the Sens have just under five million in cap space if they want to make a move.

At this point a move likely has to come from a trade. The free agent market is all but dried up. Although there are some potential options like Jagr or Parenteau they aren’t necessarily the best solution. A top six scoring threat is not available in free agency. Having the extra money to spend allows the Sens to make a deal where they can take on salary. They could make a trade that involves sending draft picks or prospects for a player if they so choose. They don’t need to send a player to get a player out of a necessity in terms of cash.

Final Thoughts

Now that Melnyk is willing to spend it means the Ottawa Senators are no doubt in win now mode. It’s the last two years of having Karlsson on a cheap contract so winning soon is imperative. With just under five million in cap space it’ll be interesting to see Dorion makes a big move in the coming weeks.