Edmonton Oilers alumni Sam Gagner named Director of Player Development for the Ottawa Senators

Announced earlier today, the Ottawa Senators have named Edmonton Oilers alumni, and fan favourite, Sam Gagner as their Director of Player Development for next season.

https://x.com/Media_Sens/status/1923078139481035078?s=19

Gagner is no stranger to the hockey world, appearing at all levels of the sport from the OHL to the NHL. This coverage gives him unique insight and the ability to work with players of all levels and in all development stages.

Sam Gagner’s playing career

Gagner first made a name for himself with the London Knights in the 2006-2007 season, posting 118 points across 53 games, while centering a line with NHL superstar Patrick Kane. Gagner was then drafted sixth overall in the 2007 NHL Draft by Edmonton Oilers.

Gagner played parts of 10 seasons with the Oilers with his first stint, starting during the 2007-2008 season. He would also have stops in Arizona, Philadelphia, Columbus, Vancouver, Detroit, and Winnipeg. He made two more stops in Edmonton in the latter stages of his playing career.

In total he appeared in a total of 1043 NHL games, posting 197 goals and 332 assists good for 529 points and a 0.51 Points per game for his entire career.

He also appeared internationally for Team Canada at the U-20 World Junior Championships, Spengler Cup, and World Championships.

Sam Gagner post-playing career

The forward confirmed retirement speculation, and wrapped up his playing career, after the 2024-2025 season with the Belleville Senators of the AHL. The 35 year old now looks to transition his on-ice success to a behind the scenes role with Belleville’s NHL parent club.

This is his first management role in his career, and with him the Senators are gaining a longtime NHLer with direct playing knowledge of the game. With a pipeline of promising young prospects, there’s lots to like about a job with the Senators.

In his final stint with the Oilers, Gagner took on a locker room role, acting more as an off-ice and behind the scenes leader. Helping his transition into this role.

Heres hoping the best for Oilers Alumni Sam Gagner in his new position!