Senators' Tim Stutzle Sets Record Straight on Agent Switch

Following rumors about a potential exit from the Canadian franchise, Ottawa Senators forward Tim Stutzle addressed his recent change in representation , dismissing the whispers talking about him being disgruntled and wanting out of Ottawa.

Stutzle made clear that the move was in no way related to any perceived dissatisfaction with the team or city when talking to the media at the Senators Community Foundation Charity Open on September 9, via Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News.

Stutzle, who signed an eight-year, $66.8 million contract in September 2022, switched from Ben Hankinson at Octagon to Claude Lemieux at 4sports Hockey, raising questions about the reasons behind the change.

Stutzle explained that the decision was personal and had nothing to do with his relationship with Ottawa.

“It’s a really long story,” Stützle said. “First, I want to say I’m really thankful for what they did for me. I saw a little bit of rumors you guys put out there. It’s not true at all.

"I love being in Ottawa and I would not be somewhere else.”

Stutzle emphasized that his decision stemmed from a situation in Germany, not his feelings toward the Senators. He also pointed out that his close friend, Detroit Red Wings' Moritz Seider, has been with Lemieux for some time and is satisfied with the representation.

“It's a different situation where it's been going on in Germany for a while now and I just want to get that fixed," Stutzle said. "(Moritz) Seider has been with (Lemieux) for a long time and he's really happy. So, that was my most important thing. (It) has nothing to do with Ottawa."

4sports Hockey , co-founded by former NHL players Peter Forsberg and Claude Lemieux, is known for helping its clients grow their careers on and off the ice.

The agency’s approach to player development is a major draw for high-profile athletes like Stützle, who is looking to capitalize on his marketability more than anything else, and most definitely staying put in the nation's capital.

Related: Senators' Linus Ullmark Hints At Future Decision With Financial Splash