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“We had guys like Chris Kelly and Mike Fisher, who were such big parts of the team and had been here since the start of their careers, so it was tough to see. For me, in that position, it was chance to step up because, when they made those trades, they needed guys to fill those roles. That’s where I got my start and it was beneficial for me at the time.

“Hopefully, it doesn’t come to that situation where it’s a complete 360 because that’s where I want to be. I want to be here, playing in Ottawa.”

The harsh reality is that the Senators cannot come back with the same group next season, and Dorion has a plan for the trade deadline. Part of that plan is for the Senators to get assets, including young players and draft picks, in return for current roster players.

It’s believed the Calgary Flames are among the teams that have shown interest in Smith. The 28-year-old has an annual cap hit of $3.25 million through 2020-21.

It’s doubtful Pageau would be moved and it would also be surprising if Derick Brassard. As stated several times, captain Erik Karlsson, winger Mark Stone and young defenceman Thomas Chabot are among the untouchables.

“I’m not a guy that goes home, watches games or listens to the radio or follows it that much,” Smith said. “I try to keep my head out of it, but you hear stuff around, mostly when you guys come (to interview him).

“You can’t worry too much about it. I can only control how I play. The unfortunate part of not winning games and the team being in this position is players tend to get moved or changes are made. That’s part of the game. The only thing I can control is my game. If we start winning games, you don’t have to worry about that as much.”