Ottawa Senators: Time For Thomas Chabot to Step Up
With the Ottawa Senators losing Marc Methot to Vegas they’re faced with finding a suitable replacement for their d-core. It looks like it could be time for Thomas Chabot to step up and make the jump to the big leagues.
Thomas Chabot was selected with the 18th pick of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators. At the time of drafting he was seen as a solid prospect who could be a bit of a project. Instead he had a massive breakout season following his draft year, scoring 45 points in 47 games. Additionally, he added 21 points in 17 playoff games and was one of the few bright spots on a disappointing World Junior team. Many thought he would make the jump to the NHL this year but after one game was sent back to junior.
From Star to Standout
After his phenomenal 2015-2016 season Chabot was expected to dominate, and dominate he did. Scoring 45 points in just 34 games he destoryed the competition in the QMJHL. He followed that up by scoring 23 points in 18 games during the Saint John Sea Dogs’ playoff run. He was then named the MVP of the defenceman of the year and the MVP of the playoffs. Chabot also added to his resume another impressive World Junior performance scoring 10 points in 7 games. Following the tournament he was named the best defenceman and the MVP. Thomas Chabot had one of the most sensational seasons in junior that an Ottawa Senators prospect has had in a long time.
High Expectations
Now Chabot will be asked to step up and fairly or unfairly will have lofty expectations. Many will be looking for him to score 30-40 points in his rookie season. When looking at his junior numbers it does not seem unreasonable. Especially given the fact he’ll likely be playing against lesser competition on the 3rd pairing. Chabot could be the next superstar defenceman in Ottawa. It all starts next year.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Comparables for Karlsson’s Next Contract
An Interesting Year on Defence
The Ottawa Senators defence will be interesting to watch next year. With Methot gone it likely means Claesson stepping in on Karlsson’s left side. Phaneuf and Ceci will anchor the 2nd pairing. As for the 3rd pairing it could be a revolving door of players. Chabot, Wideman, Harpur, and Borowiecki will all split time. The hope is that Chabot will secure his spot in the lineup as a standout with the other three splitting time. Should be fun to watch because if Chabot works out the Sens could have one of the best one two punches on defence for years to come.