From Player to Director: Sam Gagner Joins Senators Front Office After 17-Year NHL Career
Ottawa, ON – May 15, 2025 — The Ottawa Senators have made a significant move off the ice, announcing on Thursday the appointment of former NHL veteran Sam Gagner as the team’s new Director of Player Development. The hire marks a new chapter for both the organization and Gagner, who transitions from a storied playing career into a key front-office role aimed at shaping the future of the Senators’ talent pipeline.
At 35 years old, Gagner brings with him nearly two decades of NHL experience, having played 17 seasons with several clubs, including the Edmonton Oilers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Philadelphia Flyers, and most recently, the Winnipeg Jets. Over the course of his career, Gagner amassed 197 goals and 529 points in 1,029 games—a testament to his longevity, adaptability, and deep understanding of the game.
Gagner’s move into player development has long been anticipated by those close to the league. Known for his high hockey IQ, leadership qualities, and professionalism both on and off the ice, he was frequently looked to as a mentor by younger teammates. His transition to the front office comes as a natural evolution of that leadership role.
“Sam brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to our hockey operations department,” said Senators general manager Steve Staios in a team statement. “He has played at every level, faced every situation, and understands the demands of the modern NHL. We are excited for him to work closely with our prospects and help guide their growth, both as players and professionals.”
As Director of Player Development, Gagner will oversee the progress of the Senators’ draft picks and young prospects within the organization, including those playing in junior leagues, college, and the AHL. His responsibilities will include monitoring player progress, offering one-on-one mentorship, and working alongside coaching staffs to ensure a consistent development approach across all levels of the team’s system.
Gagner’s playing style combined traditional fundamentals with modern adaptability, making him well-suited for today’s evolving game. He was known not just for his on-ice contributions, but also for his ability to adjust his role and excel in different systems and locker rooms.
In interviews over the years, Gagner has spoken openly about his passion for skill development and mentorship. During his later playing years, he often spent extra time on the ice working with younger teammates, helping them with their shooting, faceoffs, and positional awareness.
“I’ve always believed in the importance of sharing knowledge and helping the next generation,” Gagner said in a statement released by the team. “This game has given me so much, and I’m excited to give back in this new role. Ottawa has some incredible young talent, and I’m looking forward to helping them reach their full potential.”
The Senators are in the midst of a youth-driven rebuild, with a talented core that includes Tim Stützle, Jake Sanderson, and Brady Tkachuk. Adding a seasoned figure like Gagner to the front office underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering a culture of development and accountability.
The Senators’ AHL affiliate, the Belleville Senators, has also seen an influx of promising prospects in recent seasons. With Gagner’s guidance, the team hopes to see more players successfully make the jump to the NHL and contribute at a high level.
Though Gagner never reached the superstardom of some of his contemporaries, his impact on the teams he played for—and now, those he will help develop—has always been significant. From his historic eight-point night with the Oilers in 2012 to his quiet leadership in depth roles, his career serves as a model for aspiring professionals.
Now, as he steps into the next phase of his hockey life, Sam Gagner brings with him the lessons of resilience, preparation, and professionalism—qualities that the Ottawa Senators hope will shape their future stars for years to come.
