22. Chris Neil
Feb 10, 2015; Buffalo, NY, USA; Ottawa Senators right wing Chris Neil (25) brings the puck into the Buffalo Sabres zone during the first period at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
I almost put Neil off this list entirely, and it’s hard to justify putting him either at 22nd or off the list. Now he’s at a stage in his career where he’s just…there. For some reason he has a contract with this team despite not really bringing anything to the table. From what everyone says, he seems to be a good character guy that is a leader, and if so that’s great for the dressing room.
But on the ice, he’s a sub-par player. I don’t think he’s a better player than prospects like Prince, Puempel, Lindberg, etc., but if I hadn’t included him on this list then I’m sure I would have received some hate from many passionate fans. I have to include him at #22 just as a tribute to the player that has been with the organization for so long.
Next: A Frustrating Defenseman