25. Matt Puempel
Mar 17, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Ottawa Senators forward Matt Puempel (26) skates with puck against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Ottawa Senators defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 2-1 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Puempel played just 13 games with Ottawa this past season, although he would have suited up for more if not for his ankle injury. He clearly impressed the Senators down the stretch, and I’m sure he will get plenty of opportunities to succeed next season. Despite having a plethora of forward contracts, I think he’ll end up playing 40-50 games if he can force his way into the lineup.
He’s an intriguing player as he’s labeled as a pure sniper, but the downside to that is if he isn’t scoring he isn’t that valuable of a winger. He has scored 30 goals in the AHL though, so I like his upside. He definitely has a potential future with the big club.
Next: Big Steady Defenseman