If Ottawa continues to underachieve, though, the questions will persist. The no-movement clause in Tkachuk’s contract kicks in on July 1, and it’s ultimately on the Senators to build a team that will prove Tkachuk right in committing and reaffirming his loyalty to the franchise.

Tkachuk revealed that Senators General Manager Steve Staios had personally reassured him there was no validity to the rumors, which the player said "didn't even see" when they popped up following a report by Larry Brooks of the New York Post.

Statement from #NYR on alleged “soft tampering” by #GoSensGo owner Michael Andlauer on recent reporting that Rangers were targeting Brady Tkachuk: “This is an irresponsible accusation and we defer to the Commissioner’s office.”