Ottawa Senators: 3 Free Agent Signings to Get Behind

Jaden Schwartz

The Contract: 1-year $6.5 million

Schwartz had one of his least productive seasons in the league last season, but just a year after putting up 57 points in 71 games the talented forward was only able to collect 21 points in 40 games.

The 8-year veteran has produced at a consistent clip throughout his career, scoring 50+ points 5 times including a career-high 63 points in the 2014-15 season. With Schwartz being just 28-years-old, the Senators would be wise to offer a one-year “prove-it” deal and if they reap the rewards Pierre Dorion can either extend or trade the asset.

With Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, Nick Paul, and Alex Formenton situated at the left-wing for the Senators next season it’s still acceptable for the team to bring in more talent up front, and Schwartz can likely play the right-wing if asked too, NHL bodies will be crucial if the Senators expect to make a run at the playoffs next season.

Here’s a quick look at how Jaden Schwartz fared analytically last season in comparison to his teammates:

• 49.01 CF% (9th)
• 49.16 xGF% (3rd)
• 48.60 HDCF% (3rd)

Schwartz was able to carry possession while producing high-quality scoring chances at a consistent rate. St. Louis struggled analytically last season and that’s the main reason for the two-way forward’s results dipping below 50%.