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: Nate Thompson 2017-2018 Season Preview
Although the Sens didn’t make many acquisitions during the off-season they did secure their RFA’s. Ryan Dzingel was one of two high profile RFA’s for the Ottawa Senators. There was initially risk of Dzingel going to arbitration. However, on the same day as the scheduled hearing, the Sens signed Dzingel to a two-year contract worth 3.6 million dollars.
At just an average annual value of 1.8 million, Dzingel was a very safe signing for the Sens. Although he was inconsistent, he had a breakout year this past season as he scored 32 points in his first full year in the NHL. Now Dzingel will have to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump.
Incoming Competition
Dzingel is a player that struggled to find a spot in the lineup during the playoffs. He may have played in 15 of 19 games but it was mostly due to injuries to other players. Next season Dzingel is set to have a spot on the fourth line. However, he is also in a position where he could be the first one replaced should someone improve. The main concern for Dzingel will be the emergence of Colin White. White has been one of the Sens’ highest profile prospects for the past two years. Now he looks NHL ready and if he makes the team it will be at the expense of Dzingel.
Next: Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #16 Radek Bonk
Ryan Dzingel has the potential to be a strong bottom six player for the Ottawa Senators. His blazing speed makes him a good fit on an energy line. However, he will have to continue to contribute offensively next season as the Colin White will be looking to steal his spot.