The Ottawa Senators have officially relinquished the NHL rights to forward Alex Formenton, according to a recent transaction report. This move effectively ends the club’s formal association with the 24-year-old player, who has been playing in Switzerland’s National League for HC Ambrì-Piotta since 2022.
Status of the Ottawa Senators’ Rights
The decision to release Formenton’s rights comes as the player remains a restricted free agent. By choosing not to extend a qualifying offer or retain his rights, the Senators have removed the final contractual link between the organization and the forward. This development follows a period of inactivity for Formenton within the North American professional system, during which he pursued his career in the Swiss top flight.
Formenton was originally selected by the Ottawa Senators in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, 47th overall. He played 109 career regular-season games for the franchise, recording 39 points, including 23 goals. His last appearance for the club occurred during the 2021-22 NHL season.
Context of the Departure to HC Ambrì-Piotta
Formenton’s move to Europe occurred after he and the Senators were unable to reach terms on a new contract following the expiration of his entry-level deal. In December 2022, he signed a contract with HC Ambrì-Piotta to continue his professional development. The transition allowed the winger to maintain competitive playing time in the Swiss National League, a circuit known for its high-tempo play and significant reliance on North American talent.
The transition to Switzerland marked a shift in Formenton’s career trajectory. Throughout his tenure with Ambrì-Piotta, he has been a consistent contributor, utilizing his speed—a hallmark of his game during his time in Ottawa—to navigate the wider ice surfaces common in European arenas.
Implications for the Senators’ Roster
From a salary cap perspective, the expiration of the team’s control over Formenton provides the Ottawa front office with further clarity as they manage their roster construction. NHL teams typically hold the rights to restricted free agents until age 27, provided they continue to issue qualifying offers. By opting out of this cycle, Ottawa signals a shift in their long-term personnel planning.
The decision also removes any potential for a sign-and-trade scenario or a return to the Senators’ lineup in the near future. The club’s current focus remains on integrating young talent and addressing depth needs through both free agency and the draft, a strategy overseen by the team’s current hockey operations department.
Current Standing and Future Outlook
As of this update, Formenton remains under contract with HC Ambrì-Piotta. His status as a free agent in the NHL allows him to potentially explore opportunities with other clubs, should any team show interest in his services. However, he remains subject to the collective bargaining agreement’s regulations regarding any prospective return to North American professional hockey.
Fans and analysts following the Senators’ roster movements should look for official updates from the NHL Central Registry regarding any further transactions or contract signings involving former Ottawa prospects. The next major checkpoint for NHL team rosters will be the opening of the league’s training camp period in September, where final roster decisions for the upcoming season are typically confirmed.
Archysport continues to monitor all NHL transaction wires. Readers are encouraged to check back for official updates on player movements and team roster developments as the league moves toward the next competitive cycle.
