“GOODBYE” – Sad News: Ottawa Senators Head Coach Travis Green Officially Announces His Departure Following NHL Proposal as Head Coach of New Franchise
In a heartfelt and unexpected announcement, Ottawa Senators head coach Travis Green has officially declared his departure from the team, accepting a new and historic role as the head coach of the NHL’s forthcoming expansion franchise in Atlanta. The news was confirmed early Saturday morning in a statement released by the Senators and later by the league, sending waves through the hockey world and leaving Senators fans in shock.
Green, who only recently took the helm in Ottawa, had been expected to play a long-term role in the team’s rebuild and resurgence. But the NHL’s latest expansion plan — bringing professional hockey back to Atlanta for a third time — presented an irresistible opportunity that Green described as “once-in-a-career.”
A Short but Promising Tenure in Ottawa
Travis Green was appointed head coach of the Ottawa Senators in May 2024 following the departure of interim coach Jacques Martin. Green, a former Vancouver Canucks head coach, arrived in Ottawa with the promise of revitalizing a young and talented roster that had struggled to find consistency in recent seasons.
Under Green’s guidance, the Senators began to show signs of maturity and cohesion, even if the win-loss column hadn’t yet reflected the full potential of the group. His systems emphasized responsible two-way play, and he earned the respect of both veterans and up-and-coming stars such as Tim Stützle, Brady Tkachuk, and Jake Sanderson.
In his farewell remarks, Green was emotional but grateful:
“I want to thank the Ottawa Senators organization, the players, and especially the fans for welcoming me with open arms,” he said. “This city has an incredible hockey culture, and while I didn’t expect to leave this soon, the opportunity to lead a brand-new NHL franchise is something I simply couldn’t turn down.”
A New Start in Atlanta
Green will become the first head coach of the new NHL franchise in Atlanta, set to debut in the 2026–27 season. The announcement confirms months of speculation about the league’s desire to reestablish a presence in one of the largest U.S. sports markets — this time with a modernized ownership model and stronger infrastructure.
Atlanta, previously home to the Flames (1972–1980) and Thrashers (1999–2011), has long been a city the NHL hoped to reclaim. With a state-of-the-art arena under construction and strong investment backing, the league believes this third attempt will be a lasting success.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised Green’s appointment, saying:
“Travis Green brings leadership, experience, and a strong developmental mindset — exactly what we need as we launch this exciting new era in Atlanta. He’s the perfect coach to guide this franchise from the very beginning.”
What This Means for the Senators
Travis Green’s departure once again leaves the Ottawa Senators in search of stability behind the bench. The team, which has cycled through several head coaches in recent years, was hoping Green could offer continuity as its young core matures into a playoff-caliber unit.
General manager Steve Staios expressed both disappointment and understanding, stating:
“We were incredibly excited about the direction Travis was taking this team, and it’s unfortunate to see him go. But we also understand how rare this opportunity is, and we respect his decision.”
As the coaching search begins anew, potential candidates include internal options like associate coach Daniel Alfredsson, as well as external names with NHL experience.
Fans React to the News
Senators fans took to social media to express mixed emotions. While many were disappointed by Green’s sudden exit, others wished him well and acknowledged the challenge of turning down such a prestigious offer.
“It’s tough to see him go just as things were starting to click,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “But if anyone deserves to build a team from scratch, it’s Coach Green.”
Looking Ahead
For Travis Green, the move represents both a professional risk and a major honor. As the face of a new NHL franchise, he will play a critical role not only in coaching but in shaping the culture and identity of a team from day one.
Back in Ottawa, the work continues to ensure the team doesn’t lose momentum in its rebuild. With a talented roster and passionate fanbase, the Senators remain one of the league’s most promising young teams — but they’ll now need a new voice to guide them forward.
Green ended his statement with a message to Ottawa:
“Thank you, Ottawa, for the trust, the passion, and the opportunity. I’ll always be cheering for this group, and I truly believe great things are ahead for the Senators.”
As the NHL expands its footprint once again and Green begins a new chapter in Atlanta, his departure marks both an end and a new beginning for two franchises charting their futures.
