The Ultimate Ottawa Senators Draft Primer
By Daniel Bruce
Package 28th for Matt Murray?
With rumours swirling the Senators have been linked to the two-time Stanley Cup Champion. Frank Seravalli recently listed the Senators as one of the teams interested in acquiring Murray’s services.
Frank Seravalli: “The Pittsburgh Penguins are believed to have one standing offer on the table for Matt Murray. The Maple Leafs, Oilers, Flames, Senators, Sabres and Avalanche are among the potential suitors for Murray’s services – a list that may soon grow.” #LetsGoPens
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) September 3, 2020
The Senators’ interest in Murray is interesting and leads to questions about Anders Nilsson’s availability who suffered a season-ending concussion last season and hasn’t been on the ice since. If Nilsson is able to play next season I don’t agree with the possibility of adding Murray, he would just add to the clutter in the Senators crease and Marcus Hogberg has proven himself to be an NHL goalie.
If Ottawa ends up trading for Murray, Nilsson’s future might be in question.
Ideal Pick: Tyson Foerster (C/RW)
Foerster is an interesting case, he lacks pace which can scare some scouts, but the way he processes the game and can produce offence shouldn’t be overlooked. Foerster had 80 points in 62 games for Barrie and led his team in points by a gaudy 33 points, he was Barrie’s offence.
The offensive winger would add more offensive firepower to the Senators group of forwards, he likely will play on the wing in the NHL and he should be more effective in that role.
Other Options: John-Jason Peterka (LW), Helge Grans (RHD)
Peterka was predicted to the Senators in Craig Button’s annual mock draft and if the Senators end up with Stutzle at 3 the chemistry between the two is elite. While Grans is a 6’3″, offensive-minded defenceman who is a bit of a project but if he reaches his potential could be a huge value at 28.