Sens Rookie Tournament Game Two Analysis

With a 6-5 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks rookies, let’s take a closer look at some of the Sens’ rookies.

The Forwards

Corey Cowick had another great game as he notched his third goal of the tournament. His effort got him in the position to get his goal and he was rewarded for his hard work. He has had a great tournament so far and may raise his profile once the main training camp begins.

Derek Grant had a quieter game than his one against the Pens, but he was good on the fore check. He definitely looks like he could be primed for a breakout year in the AHL this season, ala Colin Greening.

Mika Zibanejad showed why he was drafted so high by Ottawa. With a goal and two assists, Z-BAd showed Sens Army what his game is. He looked dangerous on every shift and may make some noise at training camp.

Andre Petersson was more assertive than game one and showed flashes of his talent. With a goal and two assists in the game, Petersson looks like he could be an impact player.

Shane Prince was all over the ice as his speed set him apart from everybody on the ice. Had a few chances that he failed to bury, but he is a special player.

Matt Puempel had a few chances but couldn’t find the back of the net. But his shot is pro ready.

Mark Stone displayed his underrated passing ability all game. With another good year in junior, and if he gains another step, he could develop into a NHL power forward.

Stephane Da Costa had his breakout game against the Hawks. He looked dangerous all game against the Pens but couldn’t finish. But today, he couldn’t be stopped. In the first ten minutes of the second period, Da Costa notched the natural hat as he showed off his slick moves and his great slapper. He;s ready to compete for an NHL spot.

Louie Caporusso had his second game in a row where he didn’t do too much. He’s playing too much on the perimeter and isn’t producing at all. He’s not ready at all for the NHL.

Stefan Noesen showed a lot of effort and compete. Needs to simplify his game to be more effective.

Jakub Culek tried harder this game then his last, but still failed to do anything on the ice.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau looked very small on the ice and was out muscled a bit. Showed flashes, but he needs to get stronger.

Overall, nine of the forwards have had a good start to their rookie tournament. They are showing that they have the skill to make the NHL and are making Bryan Murray and co. look very god.

The Defense

Jared Cowen had another steady game and playing with Rundblad, the two look natural together. He tried to be a little more offensive this game, but it showed that he may need to work on it in the AHL before making the NHL.

Eric Gryba wasn’t noticeable, but that’s what you want from him.

Mark Borowiecki had another solid game. Looks ready to be a player in the AHL.

Patrick Wiercioch had another steady game but is not living up to his offensive D-man billing.

Jordan Fransoo was steady in his debut, but didn’t overwhelm me.

David Rundblad reminds me more and more of Erik Karlsson with his rushes up the ice. Looks ready for the NHL, but I think some fine tuning in the AHL wis the best thing for his career.

The Goalie

Matej Machovsky proved he wasn’t Robin Lehner today. On an amateur contact, Machovsky did himself no favors as he could never hold the fort after the Sens built on their lead.

Overall, the Sens defense wasn’t as good as it was when Lehner was in goal. Does this mean that they are not as good as we think? Or could it be that Machovsky wasn’t ready for this level of hockey? I think it’s somewhere in between as are defense is solid, but needs to work hard to get results.

**Don’t forget to buy your Tickets for SenShot’s Alfie Night in Ottawa on November 11th, 2011. Click here for more details**

_______________________________________________________________________________

Thanks for reading and as always, comments are welcomed.

Can’t get enough of SenShot? Here are more ways to get the most info about your Ottawa Senators.

You can follow us on Twitter: Tony @13thforward, Jared @alfieisgod, Derrick @DerrickvonBrose and Brandy @brandychadala.

Visit our SenShot Facebook Page. Like us and post comments, photos and videos.

Please visit our NHL Main Page: Too Many Men On The Site.