from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun,

While there was no shortage of scouts at the Bell Centre Sunday afternoon, one of the most interesting names on the list was Tampa assistant general manager Julien Brisebois with the trade deadline set for Feb. 26th at 3 p.m. EST.

It’s believed the Lightning are looking for help on defence and may be among the teams that have more than a passing interest in Ottawa blueliners Erik Karlsson and Cody Ceci....

There’s been plenty of chatter the Lightning would be a good fit for Karlsson but he’s not going anywhere at this deadline. Acquiring Ceci may be difficult as well because he won’t be moved unless the Senators are able to get the return they want. But the club is listening on Ceci....

There are several teams looking at forwards and many have called Ottawa general manager Pierre Dorion to talk about the possibility of acquiring the likes of either Mike Hoffman, Zack Smith or Jean-Gabriel Pageau.

The belief is the asking price for Hoffman is high. If the Senators are to deal Hoffman, they’re going to want a first-round pick in return, plus a young player that’s currently in the league, or a very high level prospect that has plenty of upside potential.

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