Ottawa Senators Rumours: Do Not Trade Thomas Chabot
Defensive prospects are extremely hard to come by, just ask the Edmonton Oilers. The Ottawa Senators have themselves a blue-chip defensive prospect. There should not be any discussion to trade him, unless it is a scandalous trade.
The 18th overall pick of the 2015 draft is going to be a revelation in the NHL, utilising the new breed of defensive skills while retaining some old-school grit. Here are our reasons why Chabot impresses so much.
Composure In The Offensive Zone
The World Juniors were a wonderful insight into the potential of Thomas Chabot. For me, he put on a clinic. Scoring 10 points in just seven games whilst holding the responsibility of an “A” on his sweater, NHL material.
Granted a few of the teams gave him a lot of space, but you can only play what’s in front of you. A majority of the time, creating space, not simply being granted it. His Hockey IQ is off the charts, looking and knowing where players will be. The points spread with four goals and six assists.
Furthermore, he isn’t reckless offensively, there’s no rush about his play. Handling the puck effortlessly, looking for the pass or taking the shot. Slapping or wristing the puck from the blue-line with velocity, when he hits it, that puck travels.
More than happy to take part in the breakout, hanging back in the high slot, as was evident in the game against Sweden. Extremely light on his skates for a big guy. Also possessing nimble hands that aid him through traffic.
Skating Skill
Having watched him play for both Team Canada and the Saint John Sea Dogs, his skating stands out above most. His feet are incredibly quick and can change direction with ease. In doing so, making talented players look seemingly average.
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One particular part of his skating that I enjoy, is that of his transition from forwards to backwards. This in particular is what separates him from most with a similar skill set. It is that transition that allows him to break forward, and not get found out at the back.
The evading of opposition combined with his puck handling attributes make him incredibly difficult to play against.
Why He Must Not Be Traded
As mentioned earlier in the piece, blue-chip defensive prospects are incredibly difficult to attain and Chabot is most certainly one of these. He will slot into Guy Boucher’s system with a little more defensive work, but given his love for the game this will be no problem.
Trading him would be catastrophic for the organisation going forward, he will be ready to start for the Sens next season. It is next season that the Sens will truly make their cup charge, especially with White coming through as well.
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The only scenario in which it would be somewhat rational to trade him would be part of a blockbuster deal of Subban/Weber proportions. It would have to involve a defensemen coming to Ottawa in return.