In a surprising and under-the-radar move, the Ottawa Senators have signed Chris Didomenico from Swiss side SCL Tigers.
The Woodbridge, Ontario native has been plying his trade in the Swiss leagues for the last few years, playing two years in the second tier before getting promoted. First thing to notice about the signing is leadership, awarded an “A” this season. He can most certainly add another voice into the locker room.
(Taken from Youtube: Swissass)
Didomenico’s point production is not too shabby in the swiss leagues a 0.81 in the top-tier of the Swiss hockey. Transferring that to the NHL you would imagine he could post up around a 0.55 and higher, which would be highly welcomed within this team.
Rollercoaster Career
Drafted into the NHL, as a late rounder, placed back into junior. Staying in the QMJHL for three years after being drafted. Never getting the opportunity to gain experience with the Toronto Marlies.
After that, traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in a deal including Kris Versteeg, immediately sent down to their AHL affiliate the Rockford Icehogs.
It isn’t the blockbuster trade that Sens Army were expecting but it could be a welcome improvement to the squad. I’m always a fan of seeing players who have made a name for themselves in Europe, coming back to the smaller ice and seeing whether they can adapt. Ottawa fans will be expecting far more than a so-called NHL bust to liven up their playoff aspirations.
Having watched him, he possesses quick hands. With acute positioning. Always seeming to find himself into the right places. Furthermore, his passion is clear to see. In one instance, jumping into his own fans after a spectacular goal.
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Give him a few games on the fourth line and see what happens. The worst that could happen is that he is sent down to Binghamton.