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Ottawa Senators Mid-Term Grades – The Forwards

By Jared Crozier

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Milan Michalek

Dec 19, 2013; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators left wing Milan Michalek (9) in the second period against the Florida Panthers at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Expectation:  Michalek was also coming off injury, another knee problem that was repaired with a unique draining treatment in Germany in the off-season.  He was expected to be a supporting player on the top line, or perhaps join the second line as an anchor for the top 6.

In the First Half:  Michalek seemed to have lost a step and didn’t come close to being a dangerous offensive player.  He is on pace for a career low 12 goals and although there have been pockets of a return to top speed, those glimpses have been few and far between.
GRADE:  D

Potential for Improvement: Health is the concern, as the knee problems have been chronic.  However, he is playing for a contract and the Senators don’t have a ton of top 6 options so he will continue to get the opportunities.

Kyle Turris

Dec 28, 2013; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators center Kyle Turris (7) controls the puck with Boston Bruins defenseman Matt Bartkowski (42) moving in during the second period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Expectation:  After shouldering the load for much of last season as the de-facto number 1, was expected to take those experiences and be a much better #2 with the return of Spezza.  A steady improvement and being a consistent two-way threat would be a success.

In the First Half:  With Spezza struggling at times, Turris was a beacon, developing chemistry quickly with newcomers Ryan and Clarke MacArthur to become, if not a first line then a very good second option.  They not only put points on the board, but all three were well into the pluses in the +/- rating.

GRADE:  A

Potential for Improvement:  Overall strength is something that still eludes Turris, and that is not something that will be fixed during the season.  He has shown that he can play like a #1 centre in spurts, but can also get worn down when facing bigger centres and defensemen.

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