Prospect News: Cody Bass Re-Signs
By Editorial Staff
The Ottawa Senators announced yesterday the re-signing of gritty forward Cody Bass. Standing 6’1″ and 211 lbs, Bass is 23 yrs old and is still trying to crack the Sens line-up. SenShot will take a look at Bass’ history and what his future might hold.
Drafted in the fourth round, 95th overall in 2005, Cody Bass has yet to establish a roster spot with the Ottawa Senators. Known as a gritty defensive forward, Bass brings a certain skill set to any team he plays on. With toughness and character to spare, Bass is an excellent penalty killer and a strong middle weight who doesn’t mind to get dirty. Blessed with hands of stone, Bass tends to get in more fights in a season then he will light the lamp. Bass can be considered a poor man’s Chris Kelly with less offensive flare (which says a lot about Bass’ offensive abilities), but with more of an edge to him.
Topping out at a whopping 11 points for a career high during his professional career, Bass will be destined for fourth line duty in the NHL. However, being an affordable and energetic fourth liner is the perfect role for Bass. He can keep opposition defenders honest on the fore check and is a tireless worker on the penalty kill. Bass can also help in the toughness department and ensure skilled players get their room to play.
This contract might be Bass’ last chance to win a spot with the big club. Playing the last three seasons with Bingo, and with a few games here and there with the Sens, Bass has yet to show the consistency to earn a full time roster spot. Injuries have played a role in Bass’ lack of success in his pro career, as he has not played more than 60 games in the last three seasons. Having been passed on the depth chart by Zack Smith and Jesse Winchester, Bass needs to come to training camp with a chip on his shoulder. If Bass can mould his game after Kelly’s solid defensive play, and mix in a bit of Ruutu’s agitating ability, Bass may finally be able to crack the Senators roster and regain the form he had three years ago in the playoffs.
Bass is also one of the few veterans returning from last year’s Binghamton Senators team. If he does not make the big club, Bass will be counted on to be a leader for Bingo and will probably receive a letter as part of the leadership core. This will be Bass’ chance to prove his loyalty to the organization and show that he is a good solider and possibly earning a shot next season.
Career Potential: 4th line centre/winger
Opportunity: Bass is in the mix to be the 12th or 13th forward for the upcoming season with the Senators. However, he must out-compete favourite Zack Smith and Ryan Shannon for the spot. He must also get over the injury bug and prove he can handle the rigours of the NHL. Bass must take his future into his own hands and show he belongs in the NHL.
Optimal Line Combo: Jarko Ruutu – Jesse Winchester – Cody Bass (4th Line)
(Toughness, speed and the ability to frustrate)
I will have a report on Mike Hoffman’s signing and potential with the Sens organization up later this weekend.
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