Ottawa Senators: Mike Condon 2017-2018 Season Preview
It may just be August but the 2017-2018 NHL season will be on our hands before we know it. Training Camp will start in September and all the players will be brought together as they prepare for another season. With August as a down month in the NHL I thought this would be a great time to preview each of the players on the Ottawa Senators for next season.
Despite rumours of his impending departure, Mike Condon will return as the backup of the Ottawa Senators this season. After signing a three year contract in Ottawa in late June Condon will come to training camp with something to prove.
A Long Road To The NHL
Undrafted, Condon made his way to the NHL the hard way. He went to school at Princeton for four years before playing in the minors for three seasons. It wasn’t until 2015-2016 that he finally made the NHL. With Carey Price down with an injury, Condon was thrust into the starting role in Montreal. He performed well at first before faltering. His first season in the NHL and he was forced to play 55 games. It made sense that he wouldn’t maintain such a high level for his first full season. The Canadiens doubted him and traded him to Pittsburgh who then transferred him to Ottawa where he prospered.
Stepping Up When It Matters
With Anderson on leave to be with his wife, Condon was once again thrust into the starting role. However, this time he was more prepared and he succeeded. He played 40 games for the Sens last season and posted a 0.914 save percentage. Very solid numbers for a backup goalie. He gave the Sens a chance to win which is all you can ask for in a backup.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Craig Anderson 2017-2018 Season Preview
Something To Prove
Going into next season Condon will be fresh off signing his new contract. At just three years Condon could be poised for a big payday if he prospers in the backup role. It looks as if Condon is the guy to replace Anderson in a few years, so Condon will be motivated to perform. One season doesn’t make a goalie, but it looks like the Ottawa Senators could have found their next starter.