Making The Grade: Mike Hoffman

 MIKE HOFFMAN

Season Review – On the cusp of making the team over the last year or so, Mike Hoffman had a big opportunity to get the call early in the season when Jason Spezza went down, but unfortunately he was injured himself.  Eventually he did get his chance, and as the end of March neared, Hoffman suited up for 3 games before a shoulder injury put him back on the sidelines, for what turned out to be the rest of the season.  He didn’t register a point in his almost 37 total NHL minutes.

December 23, 2011; Raleigh, NC, USA; Ottawa Senators center Mike Hoffman (68) against the Carolina Hurricanes at the RBC center. The Hurricanes defeated the Senators 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Playoffs – Hoffman didn’t play in the playoffs.

Contract Status – Hoffman is a restricted free agent, and must be tendered a qualifying offer of $660,000 for the Senators to retain the right to match.

Importance To Franchise – Hoffman has the potential to develop into a contributing player on an everyday basis.  I don’t know if he will ever be a full-time player given the upcoming depth in the system, but he is part of the group that will compete for spots in the coming year.

Needs to Improve – Hoffman needs to adapt to the physical game and handle the grind on a regular basis if he wants to compete in the NHL as an everyday go-to player.

Grade – Incomplete…He was too injury plagued to give an adequate grade.