Senators remain Hoffman's top priority as arbitration date looms

Despite heading toward his potential second arbitration hearing in two years, Mike Hoffman's desire to be an Ottawa Senator has not been swayed.

The 26-year-old - who elected for arbitration - has no hard feelings toward the club that signed him to three consecutive one-year deals, even after leading the team in goals the past two seasons.

"That's obviously my No. 1 goal. I love Ottawa, I love the fans there," Hoffman said, according to the Ottawa Citizen. "We're a great team, great guys, so that's obviously my first priority, to try to get something done with them."

Heading into next season, Hoffman has a little extra motivation as the team's new bench boss, Guy Boucher, is a man he knows all too well from his days with the Drummondville Voltigeurs of the QMJHL.

"Very good relationship with him. So definitely looking forward to working with him again," Hoffman said.

Hoffman's arbitration date is set for Aug. 4 where he will argue 56 goals and 107 points over the last two seasons warrant more than a one-year contract.