Ottawa Senators trade Zaitsev to Blackhawks for future considerations

Ottawa Senators defenceman Nikita Zaitsev (22) works to clear the puck from in front of Senators goaltender Filip Gustavsson during first period NHL hockey action against the Florida Panthers in Ottawa on Thursday, April 28, 2022. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)

The Ottawa Senators are saying goodbye to Nikita Zaitsev.

The 31-year-old defenceman is being sent to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for future considerations. The Sens are also giving the Blackhawks a second-round draft pick in 2023 and a fourth-round pick in 2026.

Trade alert: The #Sens have acquired future considerations from @NHLBlackhawks in exchange for defenceman Nikita Zaitsev, a second-round draft pick in '23 and a fourth-round selection in '26. 1/2

— Sens Communications (@Media_Sens) February 23, 2023

Zaitsev, 31, has been with the Sens for four seasons. He's played 28 games so far this season and has zero goals and five assists, with a -5 rating.

"We’re pleased to afford Nikita a fresh start. He’s a pro’s pro who showcased himself to be a caring teammate and quiet leader throughout his Sens tenure," said Senators general manager Pierre Dorion. "We’re thankful for his time in Ottawa and wish him and his family the best in his next chapter."

TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston says Zaitsev had a limited no-trade clause but did not have to waive it for the move to Chicago. The Sens did not retain any salary in the deal.

Nikita Zaitsev had a limited no-trade clause, but didn't have to waive for this move to Chicago.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) February 23, 2023

The Senators also recently moved forward Tyler Motte to the New York Rangers in exchange for Julien Gauthier.

--With files from TSN.ca