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There’s interest in Chris Neil, says Sens GM

Vancouver Canucks v Ottawa Senators

Vancouver Canucks v Ottawa Senators

Andre Ringuette

Could veteran forward Chris Neil be on his way out of Ottawa? According to Senators GM Bryan Murray, there’s interest out there in acquiring the 35-year-old.

At the same time, Murray isn’t sure that trading Neil is something he wants to do, even though the Sens are unlikely to make the playoffs.

From the Ottawa Citizen:

Murray has received an inquiry about Neil, the tough guy winger. Before he would move Neil, Murray says he has to be sure there is enough toughness in the organization, as his AHL Binghamton club is not particularly rugged, either.

“We don’t have a lot of grit, of that caliber, in our organization,” Murray says. “And no matter what you say, you need it.”

Neil has just four goals and three assists in 29 games this season, and he’s only averaging 10:12 of ice time. But for a playoff team in search of a gritty fourth-liner with postseason experience, he could be an option.

Neil is signed through next season for a cap hit of $1.9 million.

According to the Citizen, the Sens may also explore trading d-men Chris Phillips and Marc Methot, veteran forward David Legwand, and/or “one or two others” prior to the March 2 deadline.

Related: Welcome Craig Anderson to the trade rumor mill