The Ottawa Senators have made significant updates to their coaching staff ahead of the 2024-2025 NHL season. Below is a detailed overview of the changes so far and what they mean for the future of the franchise.
Head Coach – Travis Green
Just last month, the Senators announced Travis Green as their new head coach with a four-year contract agreement. Green will replace Senators interim head coach Jacques Martin. This decision marks a new chapter for the franchise, with the first new head coach hired after DJ Smith’s four-year tenure. Green, 53, is a native of Castlegar, B.C., and was the interim head coach of the New Jersey Devils this past season. Previously he was the head coach of the Vancouver Canucks for over four seasons. Green’s coaching journey also includes a successful stint with the Utica Comets, the AHL affiliate of the Canucks, where he guided the team to the Calder Cup Finals in 2015. His ability to develop young talent and prepare them for the NHL aligns well with the Senators’ strategy of building a competitive team through its young players.
Assistant Coach – Nolan Baumgartner
Joining the coaching staff as an assistant is Nolan Baumgartner. Baumgartner is a former NHL defenseman with extensive playing and coaching experience. He previously spent nine seasons with Green between the Utica Comets and Vancouver Canucks as an Assistant Coach on Green’s staff. His familiarity with Green’s coaching style and systems will be invaluable as they implement their strategies with the Senators and help take the team to the next level.
Assistant Coach – Mike Yeo
Also joining the Senators coaching staff as an Assistant coach is Mike Yeo. Yeo adds plenty of experience to the staff, with over 20 years of coaching experience. Previously Yeo has been a head coach for the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues. His diverse coaching background and success, including leading the Blues to the playoffs, brings the experience needed to the coaching staff. With hopes to make the playoffs in one or two seasons, it’s imperative to have someone like Yeo with playoff experience.
Returning Staff
Several key members of the coaching staff will return for the 2024-25 season:
- Assistant Coaches: Daniel Alfredsson and Ben Sexton
- Goaltending Coach: Justin Peters
- Video Coach: Mike King
- Senior Advisor to the Coaching Staff: Jacques Martin (previously Interim Head Coach)
Daniel Alfredsson will notably return to the coaching staff after joining as an assistant coach last season. The Senator’s all-time points leader is expected to inspire and mentor the younger players, including emerging star Tim Stützle.
After Senators owner Micheal Andlauer purchased the team last fall, it took some time for the organization to become stable. With the suspension of forward Shane Pinto, forfeiting a first-round draft pick, and firing of GM Pierre Dorion and head coach DJ Smith, fans were treated to a lackluster season. However, the Ottawa Senators’ updated coaching staff marks a significant step towards achieving their competitive goals. With Travis Green at the helm, supported by Nolan Baumgartner and Mike Yeo, along with the returning staff members, the Senators are well-positioned for growth this upcoming NHL season.
