The Ottawa Senators were plagued with scoring issues throughout last season. Now with the free agent field dwindling, a low risk potentially high reward signing option could be P.A. Parenteau.
The Ottawa Senators are in desperate need of scoring depth. Despite having a fantastic defensive system the Sens lost games due to an inability to score. Finishing 22nd in goals for is not good enough if this team wants to be a contender. Despite not being a superstar, P.A. Parenteau could be an option to give the Sens some much needed scoring depth.
Scoring Depth
Last season Parenteau split time between the Devils and Predators scoring 28 points in 67 games. Although not spectacular this is a player capable of putting up 20 goals and 40 points. After all he did just that a season ago with a Leafs team that finished in last place.
The addition of Parenteau would also give the Sens some much needed depth on the right wing, a position the team is lacking in beyond Ryan and Stone. His addition will allow players who are normally forced into playing on their off wing to play in a position they are more comfortable in. This signing also gives the Boucher more options should some of the younger players falter.
Sheltering the Rookies
Colin White will very likely be with the Sens next year and with the current state of the forward group will likely be given more responsibility. Often times this can be how a rookie falters. Playing them too much against the better lines of the opposition has the chance to hurt his development. By adding Parenteau, Boucher will be able to give White sheltered minutes at first and move him up the lineup if he’s ready, not out of necessity.
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Final Thoughts
Depth is something that’s important at all positions. After all it’s nearly impossible that any team will go through the season without injury. P.A. Parenteau is a player who can be signed for less than two million dollars and has shown he has a scoring touch. Any help in that department is needed by the Ottawa Senators. Parenteau is a low risk high reward option.