Ottawa Senators Have Intriguing Set of Bottom 6 Forwards
By Ian Smith
The Ottawa Senators ranked 9th in the NHL in scoring last season. They may have missed the playoffs, but offense wasn’t the problem.
With Pierre Dorion recently saying with confidence that he believes the constructed roster is a playoff squad, optimism is on the rise.
Missing the playoffs is always demoralizing, especially with a talented roster. The Senators definitely have intriguing pieces.
The top 6 forward group is filled with potent goal scorers, and even the bottom 6 has productive components.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau is coming off a career best offensive season, and lead the team in plus/minus last year.
His defensive abilities were always evident, and he’ll look to build on his offensive growth from last season.
Clarke MacArthur is probably going to settle on that third line, although it’s somewhat unclear about whether he or Zack Smith will get the majority of ice time as second line left wing. He’s returning from serious concussion issues, but if he’s healthy, MacArthur is dependable for 20 goals.
Smith was always known as a gritty defensive forward, but surged as a goal scorer last year, netting 25 and leading the NHL in shooting percentage.
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Curtis Lazar works hard on both ends of the ice, and the former 1st round pick improved on his rookie season last year.
Chris Kelly was acquired this offseason, and while his health and age bring limitations to his production, he’s a physical defensive forward and will aid in the penalty kill.
Chris Neil is getting up there in age, but he still serves as an intimidating enforcer and hard hitter for this team.
The 4th line left wing spot is a little harder to project at this point, but Ryan Dzingel, Nick Paul, and Matt Puempel figure to get time at that spot.
They’re all young players who bring a decent amount of upside. Paul is a big power forward, Dzingel is a quick skater, and Puempel has shown good scoring instincts at lower levels.
If this collective group of forwards can provide tenacity and energy, any offensive contributions will be a bonus.
Next: Ottawa Senators Need Goaltending Duo to Thrive
Dorion hasn’t hinted at any more forward additions this offseason, and there’s really some solid depth on the team already.