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Ottawa Senators: Dion Phaneuf 2017-2018 Season Preview

By Alexander O'Reilly

PITTSBURGH, PA - MAY 25: Ottawa Senators defenseman Dion Phaneuf (2) looks on during the first period. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 3-2 in double overtime in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Final during the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators on May 25, 2017, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. The Pittsburgh Penguins won the best-of-seven series 4-3 and advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.(Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - MAY 25: Ottawa Senators defenseman Dion Phaneuf (2) looks on during the first period. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 3-2 in double overtime in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Final during the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators on May 25, 2017, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. The Pittsburgh Penguins won the best-of-seven series 4-3 and advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.(Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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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.

If you missed it here’s our last preview!

Ottawa Senators: Thomas Chabot 2017-2018 Season Preview

Dion Phaneuf is a player that has received a lot of criticism throughout his career. He signed a massive contract during his time in Toronto that was too much for his value. However, the bad contract was more a product of poor management in Toronto rather than a dip in his play. He was simply offered more than he was worth and he took the deal. Now a member of the Ottawa Senators he has become a rather popular player.

A Huge Trade

Traded to Ottawa in a massive nine player deal in February of 2016, it was a shock to see Phaneuf change sides in the Battle of Ontario. Although his contract will always loom over his head, Phaneuf has become a popular player for the Sens. Not forced into the number one role any longer, Phaneuf has become a good player for the Sens on the second pairing.

Going into next season Phaneuf is the only defenceman on the left side to have a secure job. He will play on the second pairing with Cody Ceci as those two seem to be locked together. However, now as Methot is gone Phaneuf will need to play a bigger role. He may play more with Karlsson as he is the Sens best defenceman on the left side.

Next: Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #21 – Milan Michalek

Expect A Solid Season

This summer has been a roller coaster for Phaneuf. The Ottawa Senators asked him to waive his no trade clause so that they could protect Methot. Phaneuf refused because he wants to stay in Ottawa. Now he has received a good deal of hate from fans for not risking his spot in the team. However, in reality, fans should be happy that a player wants to play for their team as much as Phaneuf does. Going into next season expect another solid season from Phaneuf as he continues to benefit from playing his secondary role.

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