Ottawa Senators: Clarke MacArthur 2017-2018 Season Preview

Going into the 2017-2018 season there aren’t as many question marks for the Ottawa Senators as many teams face. Much of the team is intact except for a few changes to the defence and the bottom six at forward. However, there is one question around their top six, the status of Clarke MacArthur.

Clarke MacArthur was a surprise addition to the playoff run of the Ottawa Senators. Going into the season MacArthur was fresh off a season where he played just four games because of concussions. It was expected that he would come back and be a valuable member of the Sens’ top six for the year. However, in training camp he took a high hit from Patrick Sieloff. The hit generated another concussion for MacArthur and he was out for the duration of the season.

A Career In Jeopardy

After getting another concussion so soon after recovering from his previous one it seemed as though MacArthur’s career could be done. Pierre Dorion even stated that it was likely that he would not return at all this season. Due to concerns of his health after hockey it seemed as if he would never wear an Ottawa Senators uniform ever again. However, near the end of the season MacArthur made his surprise return to the lineup.

A Surprise Return

After being absent for nearly two years MacArthur returned for the final four games of the season. Although he didn’t generate any points, his presence alone was a boost to the morale of the Sens. In the playoffs he began to find his form again. Contributing nine points while playing all 19 games, MacArthur looked to be well on his way back to his old self. He even got his moment of being the hero as he scored the series clinching goal in overtime of game six to defeat the Boston Bruins.

Going into next season there is still concern of whether MacArthur will be able to play. His history with concussions makes his status uncertain. However, he looked good in the playoffs and at this time should be ready to go for opening night.

Next: Ottawa Senators: Tom Pyatt 2017-2018 Season Preview

An Offensive Boost

After scoring nine points in the playoffs after missing two years it isn’t unreasonable to expect MacArthur to improve. Over his career he has been a player that has been able to contribute 50-60 points. His injuries could have set him back, but if the playoffs were any indication that isn’t the case. If MacArthur is healthy, he could be the boost the Ottawa Senators need offensively.