Senators Reduce Active Roster to 23
On Sunday, the Ottawa Senators cut all but two prospects still remaining at training camp following their last exhibition game. The active roster will likely remain more or less the same through the first few weeks of the regular season.
Among the rookies who impressed management enough to stay in Ottawa for the time being are Logan Brown and Alex Formenton. Neither of these players were expected to begin the season in the NHL.
Following Colin White‘s wrist injury, Brown seized his opportunity and showed Ottawa that he is ready to play at the pro level. The 19-year-old forward scored three goals in the preseason and showcased his ability to use his size to his advantage. While Brown is one of Ottawa’s top forward prospects, all signs pointed to his return to junior before October 5.
Much more of a surprise has been the Senators’ 2017 second-round pick, Alex Formenton. The 18-year-old may not possess Brown’s strength and skill, but head coach Guy Boucher has raved about his speed and hockey IQ.
Chabot Assigned to Belleville
Perhaps the most surprising move made by the Senators over the weekend was Thomas Chabot’s assignment to the AHL. While some fans may be upset by the decision, Ottawa is apparently not eager to rush his development. Boucher cited his need for improvement in reading the play as a reason for the move. In the event of injuries on the back end, Chabot will almost certainly be one of the first defensemen to be recalled.
The decision also reveals that Erik Karlsson may be close to returning to the lineup. The captain has been regularly practicing with the team in a no-contact jersey.
Preseason Losses
In sharp contrast with the team’s first three exhibition games, the Senators ended their preseason in dreadful fashion. Ottawa dropped their last three tilts by a combined 16 goals.
While this is understandably concerning, preseason games tend to be a poor indicator of regular season performance. Lineups early in preseason consist heavily of young prospects eager to compete for a spot on the team. Veteran players often do not play at their best, particularly in the defensive zone, in order to reduce the risk of injury.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Pre-Season Wrap Up And Takeaways
However, now that the roster has been set, expect Boucher to drive the team hard in the days leading up to the season opener. The Senators drop the puck for real on Friday evening versus the Washington Capitals at Canadian Tire Centre.