Original plans called for the team to play at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, but Michel couldn't get a favourable lease.

Nick Trbovich became majority owner before the season began, with Michel running hockey operations.

They were coached by Billy Harris and led on the ice by Wayne Carleton, who scored 42 goals and 92 points during the season.

Their home arena was the Ottawa Civic Centre, but they were a flop at the box office, averaging about 3,000 fans per game.

[citation needed] Rather than agree, the Nationals opted to move elsewhere for the next season and play its playoff dates in Toronto.