Comparing The State Of The Franchise: Ottawa Senators vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Final Verdict

Mar 28, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators center Curtis Lazar (27) celebrates his goal right wing Erik Condra (22) and center Jean-Gabriel Pageau (44) in the second period against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Air Canada Centre. The Maple Leafs beat the Senators 4-3 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Ottawa Senators

Forward Depth: B+/A-

Defensive Depth: B-/B

Goaltending: A-

Prospect Pool: C+

The Toronto Maple Leafs

Forward Depth: C+/B-

Defensive Depth: C-/C

Goaltending: A-

Prospect Pool: B+

It’s always an interesting comparison to make. The Toronto Maple Leafs are the league’s richest team, yet have consistently been one of the league’s worst in terms of play over the past few seasons. Their prospect pool is stronger than Ottawa’s right now, but it’s easy to see who the better drafting/development team is.

More from SenShot

In terms of the NHL roster, Ottawa is a much better team at this point in time. Toronto’s strong point is goaltending as the forward and defence groups still have lots of questions going forward. Phil Kessel, Dion Phaneuf, and Tyler Bozak may all be moved this off-season, leading to a proper attempt at a rebuild.

Ottawa has some fantastic young talent. Mark Stone should win the NHL’s calder trophy for best rookie, while Mika Zibanejad and Mike Hoffman are still young enough that they should be considered pieces for the future. Ottawa has developed depth correctly in Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Curtis Lazar, but questions on the back end still make some question this teams ceiling.

The Leafs will likely be the most covered team this off-season. A blockbuster trade or two and a high-end prospect entering the organization are just a few things to expect. For now, however, Ottawa remains a better team at the NHL level.

Next: UFA Mike Reilly Should Be Targeted By The Senators