Ottawa Senators Mid-Term Grades – The Forwards

Mika Zibanejad

Dec 28, 2013; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators center Mika Zibanejad (93) is the named the first star in game against the Boston Bruins at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Senators defeated the Bruins 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Expectation:  After a solid rookie campaign, Zibanejad was expected to be a contributor in the lineup either as a top 6 winger or 3rd/4th line centre gaining more experience as a young player in the NHL.

In The First Half:  Zibanejad received a wake-up call with a demotion to Binghamton because the team felt that he didn’t compete well enough for a spot and sort of expected it to be handed to him. After the wake up call was heeded and he returned to the Senators, Zibanejad has been a good player for the team, alternating between 4th line centre and first/second line winger. He has fit in well as a 2nd line centre in the recent absence of Jason Spezza.

GRADE:  B

Potential For Improvement:  Zibanejad is getting better by the game, and that improvement will continue over the rest of the season. He has still a  lot to learn, and he seems willing to soak it all in.