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Top 40 Prospects

SenShot presents our list of the top prospects in the Sens organization

To be considered a prospect in our rankings, the prospect must be on a entry level contract or a two-way contract and be under 25 yrs old. Our rankings are also based on who will make it to the NHL, who has proven thus far to be able to handle the North American style of the NHL, who has the most upside, and their projected impact in the NHL. So without further ado, here is SenShot’s

Top 40 Prospects

1.   David Rundblad
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 190 lbs
Date of Birth: October 8, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Lycksele, Sweden
Contract: $1,500,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2009 (1/17) by STL (acquired in a trade)
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 55  Goals ~ 11  Assists ~ 39  Total Points ~ 50
Potential: Top pairing offensive defenceman
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 0 – 1 yr
  • Rundblad is an offensive defenceman who has great puck skills, good size and can put up a lot of points. Most of his game will be played in the other teams end zone where he will do the most damage. Considered to be a Swedish Mike Green, Rundblad has been working on his defensive game to be a complete player.
  • With a chance to make the team this year, Rundblad may spend most of the year with the Binghamton Senators to develop his defensive game. Rundblad is expected to be a major factor in Ottawa’s rebuild as he, along with current Sen Erik Karlsson, are planned to be an offensive force on Ottawa’s back-end for many years to come.
  • Check out this video of Rundblad’s work.
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2.   Nikita Filatov
Position: Winger (LW/RW)
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 185 lbs
Date of Birth: May 25, 1990 (Age 21)
Birthplace: Moscow, USSR (RUS)
Contract: $2,195,833 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: 2008 (1/6) by CBJ (acquired in a trade)
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 23  Goals ~ 0  Assists ~ 7  Total Points ~ 7
Potential: Top six flashy, offensive forward
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 0 -1 yr
  • Improperly developed by the Columbus organization, Filatov is a highly skilled forward who can create magic on the ice. With his game built on offensive, Filatov needs to be put in offensive situations to be able to succeed. With speed to burn, and the ability to stick handle in a phone booth, Filatov could be the first line winger that Ottawa has been searching for since Dany Heatley left. With decent size, Filatov needs to work on his defensive game to become a complete player, but in the end, it’s his offensive ability that will keep him in the league.
  • Filatov should be able to make the team straight out of training camp, but if he does not, a little time in the AHL won’t do him any harm. It’ll be up to Filatov to show what he can do as this is probably his last chance to make it in the NHL. If everything goes to plan, Filatov can be the most dynamic player to join the Sens since Jason Spezza donned a Sens jersey.
  • Check out this video of Filatov’s magic.
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3.   Jared Cowen
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’5″  Wt: 228 lbs
Date of Birth: January 25, 1991 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Saskatoon, Sask, Canada
Contract: $1,265,000 (RFA in 2014-2015)
Drafted: 2009 (1/9) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 58  Goals ~ 18  Assists ~ 30  Total Points ~ 48
Potential: Top four shutdown defenceman with an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 0 – 1 yr
  • Cowen is an extremely good skater for his size and can move the puck pretty well. Not afraid to drop the gloves, Cowen will most likely make a pro career as being a shutdown defenceman. With an underrated offensive ability, Cowen has the skills to develop into an all-around defenceman that can make an impact at both ends of the ice. Compared to current Sen D-man, Chris Phillips, as both play a strong positional game and do not destroy opponents with their superior size.
  • The organization will most likely send Cowen to the Binghamton Senators this year to have him work on his offensive game and have him develop more of a mean streak. Down the line, Cowen looks to replace Phillips as the steady, defensive rock of the D-corps. (Note: injuries have landed Cowen a spot in Ottawa to start the season)
  • Check out this video of Cowen’s game.
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4.   Robin Lehner
Position: Goalie
Catches: Left
Ht: 6’4″  Wt: 225 lbs
Date of Birth: July 24, 1991 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Gothenburg, Sweden
Contract: $870,000 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: 2009 (2/46) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 8  Won ~ 1  Lost ~ 4  OTL ~ 0  GAA ~ 3.52  SV% ~ .888
Potential: Franchise goal tender
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 2 yrs
  • A huge goalie that covers the net well, Lehner battles for every save and has a fire in him not seen since Ron Hextall. If he learns how to channel his temper the right way, Lehner has the competitiveness to be a top goalie in the NHL.
  • By all accounts, Lehner had a mediocre first year as a pro. Bouncing around from the AHL, the NHL, and to the international stage for Team Sweden, Lehner really never found his groove. Expected to push for the starter’s role in Binghamton, Lehner lost the battle to third string goalie Barry Burst. With a total of 30 games played last season at the NHL and AHL level, Lehner had a sub-par record of 11-12-2. However, it was in the AHL playoffs where Lehner showed his worth. Taking over the starter’s role, Lehner went 14-4 with a .939 SV% on route to winning the AHL Calder Cup and playoff MVP honors.
  • The organization plans to have Lehner play the entire year in Binghamton and have him start the majority of the games. Expected to make the jump in the 2012-2013 season as a back-up, Lehner will need to prove he is not a flash-in-the-pan goalie and can be a consistent, dominant goalie in the AHL first. Expected to be the franchise goalie of the future, the organization has put all their eggs in one basket as the Sens have no other goalie in the system.
  • Check out this video of Sens scouts speaking about Lehner.
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5.   Jakob Silfverberg
Position: Winger (RW/LW)
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 190 lbs
Date of Birth: October 13, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Gavle, Sweden
Contract: $900,000 (RFA in 2014-2015)
Drafted: 2009 (2/39) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 53  Goals ~ 18  Assists ~ 16  Total Points ~ 34
Potential: Solid top nine forward with potential to be a top six forward
2011-2012 Team: Brynas IF (SEL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 2 yrs
  • There were many questions marks when Ottawa drafted Silfverberg early in the second round of the 2009 draft, as many did not know what his potential was. But the Sens have been rewarded for their scouting as Silfverberg has developed into a strong two-way winger. With good size, Silfverberg has the hands to put up points and the hockey sense to be an impact at both ends of the ice. With a great, hard shot, Silfverberg needs to work on his physicality if he wants to survive the NHL game.
  • Silfverberg will play one more year in Sweden as he believes he needs one more year to be fully prepared for the NHL. With the organization very high on Silfverberg’s talent, they want him to work on his skating that will be the difference between him being a impact top six forward or a solid third liner.
  • Check out this video of Silfverberg’s work.
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6.   Mika Zibanejad
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 195 lbs
Date of Birth: April 18, 1993 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Stockholm, Sweden
Contract: $1,775,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2011 (1/6) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 26  Goals ~ 5  Assists ~ 4  Total Points ~ 9
Potential: Top six power center
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Djurgarden IF (SEL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 3 yrs
  • The fastest riser in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Swedish forward Zibanejad began the year with Djurgarden’s junior squad, but was promoted to the big squad and finished out the year in the Swedish Elite League. Playing the game at a high intensity, Zibanejad is a power forward in every sense. Making big hits, driving hard to the net and with good speed, Zibanejad is a difference maker on the ice. Hard to knock off the puck, Zibanejad protects the puck well and has the hockey sense to find his teammates. With a good shot, Zibanejad needs to work on his skating if he wants to star in the NHL. He is a good skater currently, but he could get to another level.
  • Already signed to a three-year entry level contract, Zibanejad has come to training camp hoping to stick with Ottawa. If he can’t crack the line-up, Zibanejad will play out the year in Sweden with Djurgarden and probably suit up for Team Sweden at the World Juniors. The organization has big plans for Zibanejad as they project him to be their future second line center.
  • Check out this video of Zibanejad’s work.
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7.   Patrick Wiercioch
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’4″  Wt: 192 lbs
Date of Birth: September 12, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Burnaby, B.C., Canada
Contract: $875,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2008 (2/42) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 67  Goals ~ 4  Assists ~ 14  Total Points ~ 18
Potential: Top four offensive defenceman
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 3 yrs
  • The tall and lanky Wiercioch is a great puck mover with a good shot and an offensive minded game. With the ability to put up points from the back-end, Wiercioch notched 62 points in 75 games in his two years at the University of Denver. The Sens were rewarded for drafting Wiercioch as he had a growth spertt of two inches to reach 6’4″ right after he was drafted. However, his sudden growth has also become one of his weaknesses. At 6’4″, Wiercioch is only 192 lbs and desperately needs to add weight and strength to his frame to be able to handle the pro game.
  • Wiercioch did not have the first year as a pro he imagined when he left school early to make the Sens. A healthy scratch most nights at the beginning of the season, Wiercioch had quite an adjustment period to the AHL game. But once he got into the line-up, Wiercioch began to find his game. With 18 points in 67 AHL games, Wiercioch also earned an eight game call-up to Ottawa where he notched his first two NHL points. He fared well in his first NHL game action, but his strength yet again was an issue.
  • Wiercioch is in the future plans of Ottawa as he, along with Erik Karlsson, David Rundblad and Jared Cowen are expected to be anchor the blue line for years to come. With his height, if Wiercioch were to add 15 – 20 lbs to his frame, he would be able to dominated in the NHL. Still a few years away, Wiercioch could potentially be a all-around defenseman in the NHL in the mold of Brent Burns.
  • Check out this video on Wiercioch
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8.   Stephane Da Costa
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 180 lbs
Date of Birth: July 11, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Paris, France
Contract: $1,325,000 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: Undrafted – signed as a Free Agent by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 33  Goals ~ 14  Assists ~ 31  Total Points ~ 45
Potential: Playmaking center who can put up points – Top nine center
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 2 yrs
  • The best free agent to come out of college last year, Ottawa was able to entice Da Costa to sign with them on a two year entry level deal. With a high hockey IQ, Da Costa is a great playmaker and is very creative with the puck. Able to find teammates in scoring positions, Da Costa also has an amazing shot that he can snipe with.
  • A little bit on the small side, Da Costa has the shiftiness to be able to succeed in the NHL. However, to be a dominant center in the league, he will need to add strength to his frame before he becomes a full time NHLer.
  • With Ottawa trading away two of their top three centers last year, Da Costa has the opportunity to land a spot down the middle with the Sens. With his playmaking abilities, Da Costa will be a welcomed addition to the organization lacking offense.
  • Da Costa has a chance to make the Ottawa line-up this year, but similar to Bobby Butler who came from the US college system, he may need some time in the AHL to become accustomed to the pro game.
  • Check out this video describing Da Costa’s impact on Merrimack College and a little about him.
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9.   Eric Gryba
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 214 lbs
Date of Birth: April 14, 1988 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Saskatoon, Sask, Canada
Contract: $622,500 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: 2006 (3/68) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 66  Goals ~ 3  Assists ~ 4  Total Points ~ 7
Potential: Punishing top six shutdown defenceman with a mean streak
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 3 yrs
  • With a huge frame, Gryba is a tough, rugged defensive defenseman that is a rock in his end. Keeping players honest, Gryba will make his career by blocking shots, throwing huge body checks and being solid on the penalty kill. With limited offensive abilities, Gryba will be looked upon to be a shutdown defenseman or the defensive conscience on a D pairing.
  • Highly competitive, Gryba never backs from a challenge and is not afraid to drop the gloves. With 13 fights in the AHL last season, Gryba is quickly defining himself as a punishing defenseman. Gryba also has the ability to throw huge, open ice hits.
  • Gryba needs to work on his foot speed so that he can handle the pace of the NHL. If he can improve his skating and not get beat wide, Gryba could develop into a rugged shutdown defenseman in the NHL. He also has to make sure he picks the right moment to go for the huge open ice hit and not put his team in a vulnerable position.
  • Expected to play in Binghamton this season, look for Gryba to be given more responsibility and be counted on to shutdown opponents best lines. If he can continue to develop and work on his skating, Gryba could soon be patrolling the blue line in Ottawa (possibly next season) and filling the role of enforcer/shutdown defenseman.
  • Check out Gryba’s fight page to see him in action.
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10. Andre Petersson
Position: Winger (RW/LW)
Shoots: Right
Ht: 5’9″  Wt: 179 lbs
Date of Birth: September 11, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Olofstrom, Sweden
Contract: $730,000 (RFA in 2014-2015)
Drafted: 2008 (4/109) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 31  Goals ~ 8  Assists ~ 4  Total Points ~ 12
Potential: Highly skilled top nine forward with an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 3 yrs
  • Petersson’s game is based solely on offense. Probably the most skilled forward in Ottawa’s system, Petersson is a flashy winger with tons of speed and the moves to make anybody look foolish on the ice. Developing his two-way game, he is still a work in progress but he is learning to play on both sides of the puck. He is also an underrated passer as he is able to garner a lot of attention from opponents and free up space for teammates who he can find with great passes. With the ability to find himself in scoring positions, Ottawa hopes that Petersson can develop into a impact scorer in the NHL.
  • Size will always be a issue for Petersson and the style of game he plays, he needs to get stronger to ensure he can handle the physicality of the pro game. He will also need to work on his defensive skills so that he can be trusted fully by the coaching staff.
  • Petersson will play this year in the AHL and be looked upon as a scoring threat on one of the top two scoring lines. With his raw talent, he should be able to do some damage with the B-Sens. If he can develop his two-way game and continue to hone his offensive skills, Petersson could be a player that Ottawa will consider for a spot on the top two lines sooner rather then later.
  • Check out this video of Petersson working his magic.
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11.  Mike Hoffman
Position: Center/Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’1″  Wt: 172 lbs
Date of Birth: November 24, 1989 (Age 21)
Birthplace: Kitchener, Ont, Canada
Contract: $676,666 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2009 (5/130) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 74  Goals ~ 7  Assists ~ 18  Total Points ~ 25
Potential: Top nine forward with a top six shot
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Hoffman is a high scoring center with a tremendous shot. With the ability to make the NHL based on his shot alone, Hoffman needs to fill out his frame to ensure he can handle the physicality of the NHL/pro game. With good speed, Hoffman can not only score goals, but set them up too.
  • After playing out his last year of junior where he he won the MVP of the QMJHL, Hoffman had a rough start to his pro career last year. With a shaky start in the AHL, he was sent down to the ECHL for a few games just so he could get used to the pro game and get some minutes. After returning to the AHL, Hoffman ended the year with seven goals and 25 points in 74 games. But all was not lost as he played a role in the B-Sens playoff run to the Calder Cup.
  • With Ottawa lacking impact scorers in their system, the organization hopes Hoffman’s first season in the AHL was the growing pains of player development. With his shot compared to some of the greats in the NHL, this season it’s expected Hoffman will play a prominent role on the top two forward lines for the B-Sens.
  • Lacking the size to be a center in the NHL, the organization may switch Hoffman to the wing permanently as his skills fit that of an elite scoring winger. Depending on his play, Hoffman may see some time in the NHL this season, but expect for him to play the next two seasons in the AHL as he rounds out his game and fully adjusts to the pro game.
  • Check out this video of Hoffman speaking about his first year as a pro.
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12. Jim O’Brien
Position: Center / Right Wing
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 204 lbs
Date of Birth: January 29, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Maplewood, MN, USA
Contract: $816,666 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: 2007 (1/29) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 74  Goals ~ 24  Assists ~ 32  Total Points ~ 56
Potential: Third line center with a strong two-way game
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 1 – 2 yrs
  • Drafted in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, O’Brien was the first draft pick of the Murray management. Considered a bust after being drafted as he failed to live up to the billing of a first round draft pick, O’Brien has adapted his game and now is turning into a late bloomer. A strong two-way center, O’Brien has a good offensive game to add to his solid defensive play. With a great frame for the center position, O’Brien has also added some grit to his game that makes him strong on the puck. He can also play the wing and has tremendous speed that can separate him from opponents. O’Brien also started playing hockey as a defenseman so he brings a ton of versatility to a roster.
  • After his disappointing first year as a pro in the AHL where he only notched eight goals and 17 points, O’Brien dedicated himself to off-season training and had a breakout campaign last season. Playing in 74 games for the Binghamton Senators, O’Brien netted 24 goals and 56 points and also got to suit up for six games in the NHL. This season, O’Brien will be part of the leadership core for the B-Sens as he will be looked upon to help lead by example for the very young squad.
  • In the last year of his entry level contract, this season will determine if he is ready to take the next and earn a one-way deal. With the amount of depth the organization now has, O’Brien will need to have a spectacular year this season if he hopes to be penciled in for the Ottawa line-up in the 2012-2013 season.
  • With the tools to be a strong two-way, third line center or winger, if he can develop his offensive game more this year in the AHL, he potential could see top six minutes in the NHL. He has the speed and the frame to be a power forward in the league, but he will need to produce consistently to be given that chance.
  • Check out this video of O’Brien’s growth as a player.
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13. Kaspars Daugavins
Position: Winger (RW/LW)
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 209 lbs
Date of Birth: May 18, 1988 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Riga, USSR (LAT)
Contract: $600,000 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: 2006 (3/91) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 73  Goals ~ 19  Assists ~ 35  Total Points ~ 54
Potential: Energy winger with an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa Senators or Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 0 – 1 yr
  • Playing parts of five seasons with Binghamton, Daugavins has become a fan favorite with the fan base. With his last two seasons being fully played in the AHL, the 23 year old has notched 40 goals and 100 points in 145 games. But his real showing came in the B-Sens run to the Clader Cup as Daugavins put up ten goals and 20 points in 23 playoff games en route to the championship.
  • As a energy forward, Daugavins can also put the puck in the net and has some playmaking abilities. With a solid frame and good skating abilities, he also has the speed to put some space between him and his opponents. As a team-first player, Daugavins is also the team motivator and is not afraid to drop the gloves once in awhile.
  • Ottawa sees Daugavins as a potential bottom six energy forward that may be able to chip in a goal or two here and there.
  • As Daugavins has been part of the organization for over five years now and has yet to see significant time in the NHL, he signed a contract this past off-season to play in the KHL. However, he decided to give the NHL one more try and is participated in the Sens 2011-12 training camp. If he does not make the Ottawa line-up out of camp, it is not known if he will play the year in the AHL and hope that he gets a chance in the NHL, or if he will pack his bags and head to the KHL. This year will be Daugavins make-it-or-break-it year for his potential NHL career.
  • Check out this video of Daugavins shifty shootout moves.
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14. Stefan Noesen
Position: Right Winger
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 187 lbs
Date of Birth: February 12, 1993 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Plano, TX, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (1/21) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 68  Goals ~ 34  Assists ~ 43  Total Points ~ 77
Potential: Top nine two-way forward
2011-2012 Team: Plymouth Whalers (OHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Ottawa’s second pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Noesen was the compensation in the Mike Fisher trade with Nashville. A hard nosed competitor, Noesen has a strong two-way game and an offensive touch. After a poor rookie season where he only saw action in 33 games and notched eight points, Noesen broke out in his sophomore year as he got 34 goals and 77 points in 68 games.
  • With a high hockey IQ and a strong defensive game, Noesen is hard on the puck and plays the game with a ton of energy.
  • Ottawa hopes Noesen can develop his offensive game further as he continues his junior career in Plymouth. If he can take his game to the next level and becopme a 40 plus goal scorer, Noesen could become a good two-way forward a the next level.
  • Check out this video of Noesen’s work.
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15. Matt Puempel
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 198 lbs
Date of Birth: January 24, 1993 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Windsor, Ont, Canada
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (1/24) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 55  Goals ~ 34  Assists ~ 35  Total Points ~ 69
Potential: Top six forward with a huge scoring upside
2011-2012 Team: Peterborough Petes (OHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 5 yrs
  • Puempel was Ottawa’s third first round draft pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. In his outstanding rookie year in the OHL in the 2009-10 season, where he earned OHL Rookie of the Year and Canadian Major Junior Rookie of the Year honors when he put up 64 points in 59 games. His 2010-11 season didn’t goes as planned as he suffered a hip injury that caused him to miss time. However, he still managed to score 34 goals and 69 points in 55 games. In his two years in the OHL so far, Puempel has notched 67 goals and 133 points in 114 games.
  • With his best asset being his deadly, accurate shot, Puempel projects to be a sniper at the next level. As natural goal scorer, Puempel needs to work on other areas of his game to round out his resume. Skating has been noted as a issue, but it hasn’t affected him yet in his young career.
  • Ottawa hopes Puempel can develop into a pure sniper that can be the best pure goal scorer since Dany Heatley played in Ottawa. If he can round out his game and work on his skater, Puempel may turn out to be a late first round steal.
  • Check out these video’s of Puempel’s work. (1) (2)
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16. Derek Grant
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 196 lbs
Date of Birth: April 20, 1990 (Age 21)
Birthplace: Abbotsford, B.C., Canada
Contract: $605,000 (RFA in 2014-2015)
Drafted: 2008 (4/119) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 38  Goals ~ 8  Assists ~ 25  Total Points ~ 33
Potential: Top nine center who can put up points
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Grant is a tall, lanky center with a ton of offensive talent. Drafted out of the BCHL after putting up 49 goals and 123 points in 93 games over two seasons, Ottawa is hoping Grant can turn into an point producing center at the NHL level. Going the collegiate route and joining Michigan State, Grant notched 63 points in 76 games over two years. Grant also got to play some games in Binghamton this past season after he signed a contract with Ottawa. He got six points in 14 games and added two points in seven AHL playoff games.
  • Grant certainly has the assets to be a effective center in the NHL. With a great frame, if he can add ten to 15 pounds of muscle, he could become a dominant center. With a good two-way game, Grant could be anything from a second line center to a fourth line center.
  • Leaving college after two years, Grant is starting his pro career early in hopes that Ottawa’s current rebuild can give him the opportunity to get to the NHL quicker. Slated to start the year in Binghamton this year, Grant could be a potential call-up if he gets off to a good start in the AHL. He is still a few years away from full-time duty in the NHL, but Grant is expected to be a contributor in the future for the organization.
  • Check out this interview of Grant from Sens Development Camp.
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17. Louie Caporusso
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’10″  Wt: 190 lbs
Date of Birth: June 21, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Toronto, Ont, Canada
Contract: $565,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2007 (3/90) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 41  Goals ~ 11  Assists ~ 20  Total Points ~ 31
Potential: Top nine forward with a strong two-way game and scoring upside
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • A highly skilled- scoring forward, Caporusso has put up 68 goals and 144 points in 160 games over four seasons at Michigan. With a stocky build, Caporusso has speed to burn and the shiftiness to work in the offensive zone. Despite his smaller stature, Caporusso doesn’t shy away from the dirty zones. Still, size is an issue, but he has never let it stop him from producing before.
  • Ottawa signed Caporusso to a two-year entry level contract this summer and they plan on him being a scoring threat for the B-Sens. Even though he is a natural center, he might be moved to the wing as he has the speed and finishing abilities to be a skilled scoring winger. Caporusso also plays a strong two-way game and is solid in the defensive zone. With good hockey sense, Caporusso can also set up teammates as he is a excellent passer.
  • Caporusso will be the second 2007 draftee to turn pro and join the B-Sens (Jim O’Brien is the other) as he tries to bring back some respect to that draft class. Depending on how he adjusts to the pro game, Ottawa hopes to have found a scoring forward late in the draft that can rack up points. He will probably spend the entire year with the B-Sens and will be easier to evaluate next summer. If all goes right, Caporusso  could fill a role as a solid two-way forward on the third line in the NHL.
  • Check out this video of caporusso’s work and funny side.
  • Check out SenShot’s Prospect Profile of Louie Caporusso
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18. David Dziurzynski
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 205 lbs
Date of Birth: October 06, 1989 (Age 21)
Birthplace: Lloydminster, Alta, Canada
Contract: $600,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: Signed as a Free Agent in 2010 by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 75  Goals ~ 6  Assists ~ 14  Total Points ~ 20
Potential: Top nine forward or fourth line energy forward
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Signed out of the BCHL, Ottawa won a bidding war for Dziurzynski services as the power forward notched  21 goals and 74 points along with 79 penalty minutes in 57 games. He then topped off his great year as an overager junior as he added nine goals and 19 points in 13 playoff games.
  • With a great frame (6’3″ and 205 lbs), Dziurzynski also has great speed and soft hands. With his game built on a blend of skill and toughness, Dziurzynski has all the tools to be a dominant power forward at the pro level. In his first season with the B-Sens, he notched 20 points in his limited ice time as he adjusted to the pro game. He added three assists in 14 AHL playoff games as he helped the B-Sens win their first Calder Cup.
  • Ottawa signed Dziurzynski based on his raw talent and the potential they saw in him. He is still a project, and Ottawa would like for him to work on his offensive game. He is a big, strong guy, but fighting is not his game and that’s not how Ottawa wants him to develop. They like the toughness and grit in his game, but they would prefer him to use his power and speed to hurt opponents on the scoreboard. If all goes right, Dziurzynski could be a productive top nine forward that could provide secondary scoring.
  • Check out this video of Dziurzynski’s work.
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19. Mark Borowiecki
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’1″  Wt: 205 lbs
Date of Birth: July 12, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Ottawa, Ont, Canada
Contract: $610,000 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2008 (5/139) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 31  Goals ~ 3  Assists ~ 9  Total Points ~ 12
Potential: Top six defensive defenceman with a mean streak
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Borowiecki is a hard nosed, gritty defensive defenseman who plays the game with 110% effort. Borowiecki does everything in the defensive zone that a coach can ask – he hits, blocks shots, is strong on the boards and protects the front of the net. With a solid frame, Borowiecki has a mean streak that he uses to keep opponents honest. With little to no offense to his game, Borowiecki will make his mark in the NHL as a solid shut down defenseman. Borowiecki will be a fan favorite in Ottawa as he is a home town boy and plays a hard working game that fans love.
  • After completing three years at Clarkson University, Borowiecki signed a two-year entry level contract to begin his pro career. Thinking that he might get a chance to suit up for a few games down the stretch for the B-Sens, Borowiecki was called to duty when a rash of injuries hit the B-Sens’ blue line in the AHL playoffs. Playing in 21 playoff games, Borowiecki played top four minutes as a shut down D-man as he helped the B-Sens win their first AHL Calder Cup.
  • Ottawa sees Borowiecki as a potential shut down D-man that can complement the mix of offensive-minded defensive prospects in the system. Borowiecki plays hard and will earn a big role in Binghamton this fall. Don’t be surprised if Borowiecki is wearing a letter for the B-Sens in the near future too. Still a few years away from a full-time gig in the NHL, Borowiecki may get a sniff in Ottawa this year as a reward/incentive for his strong play.
  • Check out this video of Borowiecki’s work.
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20. Craig Schira
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 196 lbs
Date of Birth: April 21, 1988 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Spiritwood, Sask, Canada
Contract: $545,000 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: Signed as a Free Agent in 2009 by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 67  Goals ~ 3  Assists ~ 10  Total Points ~ 13
Potential: Depth defenceman with a little bit of an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Signed as a free agent in 2009, Ottawa brought Schira into the system to add depth to a weak prospect cupboard at the time. As an offensive defenseman, Schira put up 16 goals and 51 points in his last year of junior with Vancouver. With a good frame, Schira uses his body to lay down some big hits and to drop the gloves occasionally.
  • With two seasons under his belt in Binghamton, Schira has yet to really find his stride. In 135 games, Schira has 11 goals and 34 points. With a number of blue chip prospects coming in this year on the blue line, Schira will be in tight competition to get a shot in the NHL this upcoming season. He does have pro experience over the other prospects which may give him the upper hand in getting closer to the NHL, but it’ll be up to him to make the most of his opportunity.
  • With one more year on his current deal, if Schira works out, Ottawa would see that as a bonus. But if he does not, Ottawa would not be too affected as their prospect pipeline is well stocked. This year is a make-it-or-break-it year for Schira so it’ll be interesting to watch him with the B-Sens.
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21. Chris Wideman
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 5’10″  Wt: 177 lbs
Date of Birth: January 07, 1990 (Age 21)
Birthplace: St. Louis, MO, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2009 (4/100) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 39  Goals ~ 3  Assists ~ 20  Total Points ~ 23
Potential: Top four puck-moving defenceman with an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: Miami University (Ohio) (CCHA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Wideman is a smooth skating, puck moving defenseman that can put up points. With a great shot, Wideman is a good playmaker from the back end and is able to carry the puck up the ice. With great vision on the ice, Wideman helps transition the game quickly and is also patient with the puck. Despite his size, Wideman uses effective body positioning and crafty stick work to defend his zone.
  • Even though he lacks the ideal stature for a defenseman, Wideman can generate points from the blue line and move the puck well. Ottawa sees Wideman as a potential offensive puck moving D-man that can complement a more defensive minded D-man. Wideman is still a long-term prospect that will be given all the time to develop fully. But he will be in tough to crack the team as a defenseman as Ottawa has many defensive prospects ahead of him.
  • Get to know Wideman better with this video interview of him.
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22. Mark Stone 

Position: Right Winger
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 198 lbs
Date of Birth: May 13, 1992 (Age 19)
Birthplace: Winnipeg, Man, Canada
Contract: $630,000 (3 yr Entry Level Contract that kicks in his first pro season)
Drafted: 2010 (6/178) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 71 Goals ~ 37  Assists ~ 69  Total Points ~ 106
Potential: Power forward who can put up points
2011-2012 Team: Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Probably the Sens fastest rising prospect, Stone may turn out to be a late-round gem for Ottawa. Increasing his point total by 78 points last season, Stone was a beast in the WHL. With his imposing frame, Stone uses his body to muscle his way to the front of the net to score goals. With a strong hockey IQ, Stone sees the ice well and anticipates the play. Not only can he put the puck in the net, Stone is a good playmaker and isn’t afraid to drop the gloves once in awhile.
  • The only knock on Stone has been his skating. He has been working on his skating and if he can develop a smoother stride, he could become a real force on the ice.
  • Ottawa hopes Stone can develop into a scoring power forward who can complement elite players by bringing skill and grit to the line. Stone will play his last year of junior this season, and hopefully suit up for Canada at the World Juniors. With another big year, Stone may rise into the top ten of Sens prospects and be a future player that can be counted on to produce at the NHL. This year will be very telling to see if Stone is the real deal or just another great junior player.
  • Check out SenShot’s Prospect Profile of Mark Stone.
  • Check this video of Stone’s work.
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23. Pat Cannone
Position: Right Winger
Shoots: Right
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 192 lbs
Date of Birth: August 09, 1986 (Age 25)
Birthplace: Bayport, NY, USA
Contract: $600,000 (RFA in 2012-2013)
Drafted: Signed as a Free Agent in 2011 by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 39  Goals ~ 14  Assists ~ 23  Total Points ~ 37
Potential: Bottom six depth forward
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 2 – 3 yrs
  • Signed as a NCAA free at the end of the 2010-11 season, Cannone is a good playmaking winger who uses his speed and body to put up points. In a 166 games at Miami, Cannone put up 45 goals and 133 points. Never missing a game in four seasons at Miami, Cannone plays a solid two-way game.
  • Ottawa hopes that Cannone can work out like a few of their other college free agent signings and that they have found a late bloomer. Expected to play the year with the B-Sens, Cannone will need to make an impact early if he plans to establish himself as a legitimate prospect in the Sens system. Already 25 years old, Cannone may have a leg up on younger prospects, but that also means his window to make the NHL is small and he may only have this year to make an impression.
  • Check out SenShot’s Prospect Profile of Pat Cannone
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24. Shane Prince
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’10″  Wt: 181 lbs
Date of Birth: November 16, 1992 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Rochester, NY, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (2/61) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 59  Goals ~ 25  Assists ~ 63  Total Points ~ 88
Potential: Speedy playmaking center
2011-2012 Team: Ottawa 67′s (OHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Prince’s greatest asset is his tremendous speed that usually makes him the fastest player on the ice in most games. With great vision, Prince sees the ice very well and is a very good playmaker. With his breakthrough campaign where he netted 88 points in 59 games after only getting 30 points the previous season, his only blemish was when he suffered a concussion near regular season’s end that limited him to only three playoff games.
  • With his competitive nature and drive to beat the odds as a smaller player, Ottawa drafted Prince based on his talents and the belief that he can make it to the next level. To be able to make the NHL, Prince will need to build strength and possible add about 10 to 15 lbs to survive the NHL game. Still a few years away, this season in the OHL will be a big year for Prince as it is expected that he will dominant the league and put up bigger points than last season.
  • Check out this video of Prince’s work.
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25. Jean-Gabriel Pageau
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Ht: 5’9″  Wt: 163 lbs
Date of Birth: November 11, 1992 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Ottawa, Ont, Canada
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (4/96) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 67  Goals ~ 32  Assists ~ 47  Total Points ~ 79
Potential: Small shifty center with tons of heart
2011-2012 Team: Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • Pageau is a diminutive scoring center that plays with tons of heart. Never letting his size be a factor, Pageau’s work ethic, drive and offensive talents make him very dangerous in the offensive zone and on the powerplay. With great speed and excellent vision, Pageau can play the role of a playmaking center or a scoring center. With a good shot, Pageau made his name in the QMJHL playoffs as he led his team to the finals with 29 points in 24 games.
  • Ottawa drafted Pageau based on his talents and drive to succeed. Despite his stature, Ottawa believes that Pageau is one of those special small forwards that can make it to the NHL and be successful due to his competitiveness. Pageau is a long-term project for Ottawa as he will need to work on honing his skills and building strength if he wants to make it to the show.
  • Check out this video of Pageau’s work and here is Pierre Dorion speaking about Pageau.
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26. Wacey Hamilton
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’10″  Wt: 170 lbs
Date of Birth: September 10, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Calgary, Alta, Canada
Contract: $900,000 (RFA in 2014-2015)
Drafted: Signed as a Free Agent in 2011 by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 67  Goals ~ 20  Assists ~ 53  Total Points ~ 73
Potential: Small gritty two-way center
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Signed as an over-aged junior, Ottawa beat out many teams for Hamilton’s services. As a solid two-way center, Hamilton plays the game with a ton of heart and grit. Along with his toughness, Hamilton mixes in skill as he is a good playmaker and is excellent in the faceoff circle. With 100 assists and 144 total points in his last two junior seasons, Hamilton is capable of putting up points. Playing in all situations, Hamilton is a heart and soul type of hockey player with strong leadership qualities. With speed to burn, Hamilton is a great body checker and has a solid defensive game too.
  • Ottawa hopes that Hamilton can develop in the mold of current Sen Zach Smith, but with more scoring upside. A little on the small side, Hamilton does need to add more muscle to his frame as he plays a big man’s game. As captain of the Tigers, Ottawa hopes Hamilton can bring that leadership to a young B-Sens squad this upcoming season and help with the lack of veterans on the team. Hamilton may top out as a third line center, but if he can make it to the NHL, he should become a fan favorite very quickly.
  • Check out SenShot’s Prospect Profile of Wacey Hamilton
  • Check out this video of Hamilton’s game.
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27. Jakub Culek
Position: Center / Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’4″  Wt: 195 lbs
Date of Birth: September 07, 1992 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Klatovy, Czech. (CZE)
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2010 (3/76) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 55  Goals ~ 7  Assists ~ 15  Total Points ~ 22
Potential: Top nine playmaking center
2011-2012 Team: Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • As the Sens’ top pick from the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Culek has tons of talent and great hands. As a playmaking center, Culek has great vision and can also line up as a left winger when need be. With great size, Culek was drafted after his rookie year with Rimouski where he put up 47 points. He is very good in his zone and plays a good two-way game that makes him dangerous at both ends of the ice. He also isn’t afraid to drop the gloves as he had three fights last year, but that’s not to say that fighting is his game.
  • With his imposing frame, Culek still needs to add more muscle to take better advantage of his body and dominant games. At only 18 years old, Culek still has a lot of filling out to do which will come as he ages. Culek has a lot of talent but is still a very raw prospect and needs to work on his game. Culek suffered the dreaded sophomore slump as his point total was more than half of his rookie total.  Culek also needs to work on his skating as it should come when he gets used to his body.
  • Ottawa sees Culek as a potential dominant, playmaking center that could center the second or third line in the future. With his size and two-way abilities, if Culek adds some more strength to his body, he could be a center in the mold of a Martin Hanzal in the future. He is a long term prospect and Ottawa will give him all the time to develop. However, with other prospects making a name for themselves, Culek has to have a good year this season to re-establish himself as a prospect in the Sens organization.
  • Check out these videos of Sens scouts Greg Royce and Vaclav Burda speaking about Culek.
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28. Marcus Sorensen
Position: Right Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 165 lbs
Date of Birth: April 07, 1992 (Age 19)
Birthplace: Sodertalje, Sweden
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2010 (4/106) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 8  Goals ~ 1  Assists ~ 1  Total Points ~ 2
Potential: Diminutive scoring winger
2011-2012 Team: Skelleftea AIK (SEL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • A diminutive scoring forward, Sorensen was drafted after putting up 42 points in 15 games for Sodertalje in the Under-18 Swedish league.  Drafted in the fourth round (106 overall), Sorensen was a little off the board and was considered a risky pick in that round, especially since the Sens only had four total picks in the 2010 draft. Having been able to put up points in every league he’s played in, Sorensen got promoted to the Swedish Elite League last year where he played eight games with Djurgarden.
  • After signing a two-year contract with  Skellefteå AIK this past summer, Sorensen hoped to stay with the big club. However, Sörensen didn’t make the Skellefteå SEL team and will be loaned to SEL-2 to start the season. Hopefully he can play well and get promoted back to the SEL and develop further.
  • Ottawa drafted Sorensen as a long term project. Not only does he have to work on building strength, he needs to prove that he can handle playing against tougher competition, something that he has not proven yet. Ottawa will let Sorensen play out his current two year deal with Skelleftea and hope to sign him then. If they do, expect Sorensen to spend some time in the AHL. Like Emil Sandin, Sorensen is a bit of a wild card. If all works out, he could be a good scorer in the NHL. If not, Sens fans may never see him in a Sens jersey.
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29. Jeff Costello
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 198 lbs
Date of Birth: November 20, 1990 (Age 20)
Birthplace: Milwaukee, WI, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2009 (5/146) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 44  Goals ~ 12  Assists ~ 6  Total Points ~ 18
Potential: Gritty two-way energy forward
2011-2012 Team: Notre Dame (CCHA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • Costello is a rough and rugged left winger who will scored most his goals from the dirty zone in front of the net. Not afraid to drive hard to the net, Costello has the hands to finish once he gets there also. Not afraid to drop the gloves, Costello is a good fighter that he can add to his repertoire as a hockey player. Costello’s scoring was down in his first year at Notre Dame, but he should rebound in his second upcoming year as he has had time to adjust to the collegiate game.
  • Costello also lives with diabetes that forces him, even during games, to closely monitor his blood sugar. Dealing with diabetes since he was five years old, Costello has never let it get in the way of his hockey career.
  • Ottawa considers Costello to be a Chris Neil clone with more potential scoring upside. If Costello could hone his offensive game while at Notre Dame, Costello has the chance to develop into an effective top nine forward in Ottawa.
  • Check out Costello’s fight page to see how he handles himself.
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30. Emil Sandin
Position: Winger (RW/LW)
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’10″  Wt: 178 lbs
Date of Birth: February 28, 1988 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Uppsala, Sweden
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2008 (7/199) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 26  Goals ~ 0  Assists ~ 3  Total Points ~ 3
Potential: Skilled, flashy depth winger
2011-2012 Team: Brynas IF (SEL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Sandin is a very skilled forward who is hard to knock off the puck, even though he is not that big. A very good skater, Sandin’s work ethic and intensity show in his style of play. With good play making instincts, he can earn his keep on the powerplay where he is given more time and space. Sandin will suit up for Brynas in the Swedish Elite League this upcoming season, where he will play with Sens prospect, Jakob Silfverberg.
  • Drafted as a long-term project, Ottawa hopes to bring Sandin over to North American next season after his current contract with Brynas expires after this season. Sandin is part of the Swedish invasion in Ottawa as he is one of seven Swedish prospects the organization has drafted since the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. As an older prospect, Ottawa hopes that his experience in the SEL playing against men will help him transition to the North American game easily. But at 23 years old, Sandin has to make the jump to this side of the ocean soon if he ever hopes to play in the NHL one day.
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31. Max McCormick
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 5’11″  Wt: 174 lbs
Date of Birth: May 01, 1992 (Age 19)
Birthplace: De Pere, WI, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (6/171) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 55  Goals ~ 21  Assists ~ 21  Total Points ~ 42
Potential: Honest, two-way winger with tons of grit
2011-2012 Team: Ohio State (NCAA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • McCormick is a hard nosed, two-way forward who is set to begin his collegiate career with Ohio State this year. He plays an honest game and has good hockey sense and loves to battle in the corners. Putting up 21 goals and 42 points in 55 games last year with Sioux City, McCormick has some offensive abilities, but he earns his ice time by playing an in-your-face style that shuts down opponents. McCormick can be compared to current Sen Chris Neil, but with a more offensive upside. He also isn’t afraid to drop the gloves as he had six fights last year.
  • Set to begin his collegiate career, the Sens will let McCormick develop his game at Ohio State. There is no rush with McCormick and the Sens will give him all the time to work on his game. He is a long-term project, but the Sens hope he can turn into a energy forward with a scoring upside.
  • Check out this video of McCormick after he was drafted.
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32. Ben Blood
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 232 lbs
Date of Birth: March 15, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Plymouth, MN, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2007 (4/120) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 44  Goals ~ 2  Assists ~ 10  Total Points ~ 12
Potential: Shutdown defenceman with a mean streak
2011-2012 Team: North Dakota (WCHA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Now entering his senior year at North Dakota, Blood is a physical, stay-at-home defenceman. With good size and reach, Blood is very good defensively and is capable of producing at least one big hit per game. Almost never letting guys go around him, he’s very good at doing the little things. He’s very strong along the boards and flip a backhand high off the glass to get it out of the zone and is a solid penaltl killer. Plain and simple, Blood is just a reliable defenceman.
  • If all goes to plan, Blood will be signed to a pro contract at the end of this year’s NCAA season. He will probably need some seasoning in the AHL, but Blood brings a skill to the game that other prospects such as Jared Cowen and David Rundblad don’t have. Blood has a mean streak in him that can punish opponents and keep them honest. Blood may be able to crack the NHL team sooner them most think as he can fill a need of a physical, steady defenceman.
  • Check out this video of Blood’s physicality and learn more about him from this video too.
  • Check out SenShot’s Prospect Profile of Ben Blood
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33. Fredrik Claesson
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 198 lbs
Date of Birth: November 24, 1992 (Age 18)
Birthplace: Stockholm, Sweden
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (5/126) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 35  Goals ~ 2  Assists ~ 0  Total Points ~ 2
Potential: Top six shutdown defenceman
2011-2012 Team: Djurgarden IF (SEL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • Drafted in 2011, Claesson is a stay-at-home defenceman who can block shots and throw his weight around. With a decent shot, Claesson is not totally inept on the offensive side of the puck. As a puck-mover, Claesson keeps it simple and always goes for the easy, safe plays.
  • Claesson will spend the 2011-2012 season in Sweden with Djurgarden and may come overseas in a few years. Claesson will be in tough to make the team with so many defensive prospects ahead of him on the depth chart. Ottawa will be very patience with Claesson and give him all the time he needs to develop his game fully.
  • Check out this video of Sens scout Vaclav Burda speaking about Claesson.
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34. Ryan Dzingel
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’0″  Wt: 185 lbs
Date of Birth: March 09, 1992 (Age 19)
Birthplace: Wheaton, IL, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (7/204) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 54  Goals ~ 23  Assists ~ 44  Total Points ~ 67
Potential: Skilled plamaker with a good shot
2011-2012 Team: Ohio State (NCAA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • After being skipped over in his first year of draft eligibility, Ottawa picked the playmaking center in the seventh round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. With good hockey sense and work ethic, Dzingel can make the players around him much better than they are. Putting up 34 goals and 93 points in 90 USHL games over his last two seasons, Dzingel has shown that he can create a lot of offensive opportunties for himself and his teammates.
  • With the plan to go to Ohio State for the next possible four years, Dzingel will get time to work on his game and round out his defensive game. He will also get time to strengthen his body as he could use a little more meat on his bones for the center position. Ottawa will leave Dzingel at Ohio State and will not rush him anytime soon. They want him to develop as much as possible before he signs with Ottawa and begins his pro career. There is only a small sample size of Dzingels work these last two seasons, so his collegiate career will be able to shed some light on to what kind of player Dzingel will develop into.
  • Check out this video of Sens scout Bob Janecyk speaking about Dzingel.
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35. Brad Peltz
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’1″  Wt: 175 lbs
Date of Birth: October 02, 1989 (Age 21)
Birthplace: New York, NY, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2009 (7/190) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 1  Goals ~ 1  Assists ~ 1  Total Points ~ 2
Potential: Depth offensive forward
2011-2012 Team: Yale University (ECAC)
How Far Away From The NHL: 5 yrs
  • Drafted in the seventh round of the 2009 NHL Entry draft, Peltz was considered a favor to Sens owner Egene Melnyk rather then a prospect that the organization was high on. As the son of billionaire Nelson Peltz, many think that Peltz was drafted more for his relationship between Melnyk and his father then for his talent. Adding to this theory is that Peltz did not play his entire draft year as he was forced to missed the year due to an infection.
  • Peltz spent his 2009-2010 season playing in the EJHL as he notched 19 goals 34 points in 45 games. His 2010-2011 season saw Peltz join Yale University. However, he saw little playing time as he only suited up for one game, but he did get a goal and an assist in that one game. This year, Peltz hopes to earn a bigger role with Yale and hopefully see a lot more ice.
  • As a offensive forward, Peltz has slick moves with the puck and is a pretty quick skater. Being able to put up points in the past, Peltz needs to play this year to establish what kind of player he is. A long-term project, Peltz needs a lot of work on his game if he ever hopes to make it to the NHL.
  • Check out this video of Peltz after he was drafted.
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36. Corey Cowick
Position: Left Winger
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’3″  Wt: 208 lbs
Date of Birth: August 01, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Gloucester, Ont, Canada
Contract: $611,666 (RFA in 2013-2014)
Drafted: 2009 (6/160) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 30  Goals ~ 1  Assists ~ 3  Total Points ~ 4
Potential: Fourth line energy forward
2011-2012 Team: Binghamton Senators (AHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 3 – 4 yrs
  • Cowick is your prototypical energy forward that hits everything on the ice. With a great frame, Cowick has limited offensive abilities but knows how to play his role. Finding the balance of playing on the edge, Cowick can be compared to current Sen Chris Neil. However, Cowick lacks the fighting skills of a player that plays his style of game.
  • With his first year as a pro not going as planned, Cowick spent half of the season in the ECHL with Elmira as he searched for his game. However, Cowick was promoted to the AHL B-Sens half way through the season and ended up playing 30 games and notching four points. This year, Cowick hopes to stick with Binghamton full-time and round out his game. Cowick needs to define what kind of player he is as he’s not an enforcer, but he doesn’t have the offensive tools to be an effective bottom six forward.
  • Check out this video on Cowick after he was drafted.
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37. Bryce Aneloski
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 204 lbs
Date of Birth: April 27, 1990 (Age 21)
Birthplace: Peoria, IL, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2010 (7/196) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 39  Goals ~ 2  Assists ~ 17  Total Points ~ 19
Potential: Depth defenceman with an offensive upside
2011-2012 Team: University of Nebraska (WCHA)
How Far Away From The NHL: 4 – 5 yrs
  • Aneloski is an offensive defenseman with a great frame and is a good skater. With 19 points last year in Nebraska, he was their highest scoring defenseman. With a plus 15 rating, Aneloski can also takes care of his end. As a power play quarterback, he has good hockey sense and can jump into the rush.
  • Drafted as a project, Aneloski will play out his college career at Nebraska and will then go to the AHL. If all goes to plan, Aneloski could provide offense from the back end in the NHL someday. However, with a few blue chip prospects on the blue line in the system way ahead of him on the depth chart, Aneloski will need to establish himself as a prospect in the next few years if he hopes to get a shot in Ottawa.
  • Check out this video of Sens scouts speaking about Aneloski.
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38. Jordan Fransoo
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Right
Ht: 6’2″  Wt: 178 lbs
Date of Birth: April 25, 1993 (Age 18)
Birthplace: North Battleford, Sask, Canada
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (7/186) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 63  Goals ~ 6  Assists ~ 12  Total Points ~ 18
Potential: Depth defensive defenceman
2011-2012 Team: Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 5 – 6 yrs
  • In his first year in the WHL, Fransoo handled himself pretty well. Putting up a respectable 18 points as a rookie, Fransoo’s game is built on the defensive side of the puck. With good size, Fransoo needs to fill out a little bit to establish his presence more in his end. Helping a very young Brandon D-corps get into the playoffs, Fransoo has a high compete level with a strong work ethic.
  • Drafted as a project, Fransoo will be a long-term prospect and will not be rushed. Still a little raw, this upcoming season will help to define Fransoo as to what kind of player he can be. Former Ottawa head coach, Cory Clouston will be taking the role behind the Brandon bench this season, so it’ll be interesting to see if there are any effects from that.
  • Check out this video of Sens scout, Bob Lowes speaking about Fransoo.
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39. Michael Sdao
Position: Defenceman
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’4″  Wt: 225 lbs
Date of Birth: July 03, 1989 (Age 22)
Birthplace: Bloomington, MN, USA
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2009 (7/191) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 27  Goals ~ 3  Assists ~ 7  Total Points ~ 10
Potential: Depth shutdown defenceman that can also be an enforcer
2011-2012 Team: Princeton (ECAC)
How Far Away From The NHL: 5 yrs
  • Sdao is a big, physical defensive defenseman that has played the last two years at Princeton. With 18 points in 57 games, Sdao is expected to make his presence felt in his own end rather then the oppositions. The American blue liner also knows how to drop the mitts and can be compared to current Sen Matt Carkner.
  • Sdao is a project and could develop into a sixth or seventh defenseman in the NHL. With not much offense to his game, Sdao should work on perfecting his defensive game and become a hard-nosed defensive defenseman that can shutdown opponents.
  • Check out Sdao’s Fight Page for a few of his fight videos.
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40. Darren Kramer
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Ht: 6’1″  Wt: 202 lbs
Date of Birth: November 19, 1991 (Age 19)
Birthplace: Peace River, Alta, Canada
Contract: Unsigned
Drafted: 2011 (6/156) by OTT
Last Yrs Stats: GP ~ 68  Goals ~ 7  Assists ~ 7  Total Points ~ 14
Potential: Fourth line enforcer
2011-2012 Team: Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
How Far Away From The NHL: 5 – 6 yrs
  • Drafted in his second year of his draft eligibility after his first year in the WHL, Kramer was drafted for his hands. However, its more what he can do with his fists rather than with the puck. With an amazing 46 fights last season, Kramer is your prototypical enforcer. A team first guy, even though he is not the biggest guy, Kramer knows how to handle himself in a tussle and is one of the best fighter in junior hockey.
  • With the enforce a dying breed in the NHL, Kramer will need to round his game if he ever plans to play in the NHL. Chris Neil is the perfect player for Kramer to model himself after. Still a long ways away from the NHL, Ottawa hopes Kramer will develop into a energy forward that can be a middle-to-heavy weight fighter in the NHL. It’ll be up to Kramer to work on his game and bring more to the table.
  • Check out Kramer’s Fight Page for video of all his 46 fights.
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  • Prospects still in the system but are playing overseas such as Roman Wick, Ruslan Bashkirov and Kirill Lyamin are considered to have given up on their NHL careers and are therefore not included in the prospect rankings.
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