Ottawa Senators 2016-17 Roster, Where Are They Now: Defense

OTTAWA, ON - DECEMBER 4: Erik Karlsson #65 of the Ottawa Senators chats with Dion Phaneuf #2 during a break in a game against the New York Rangers at Canadian Tire Centre on December 4, 2017 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images)
OTTAWA, ON - DECEMBER 4: Erik Karlsson #65 of the Ottawa Senators chats with Dion Phaneuf #2 during a break in a game against the New York Rangers at Canadian Tire Centre on December 4, 2017 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images) /
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Mark Borowiecki

Ottawa Native Mark Borowiecki was supposed to be an Ottawa Senator for life according to General Manager Pierre Dorion. Unfortunately, being forced to record an interview with late-owner Eugene Melnyk would leave the defenceman wanting a change of scenery. During his time in Ottawa, “Borrocop” would show exemplary leadership qualities and give it his all on the ice every single day, earning a spot as alternate captain. He signed a two year deal with the Nashville Predators on October 9th 2020, and would sign a one year extension on February 15th 2022. He is a pending unrestricted free agent and what’s next for the beloved gritty defenseman is not yet known.

Chris Wideman

The offensive minded Chris Wideman would begin his career pretty well in Ottawa, establishing himself as one of Ottawa’s best defensemen after this season, but his time in the Nation’s capital would be quite short, as he would be the main focal point of the infamous uber video and would be used to make an example out of. He would be traded free times in a four month span, first to the Edmonton Oilers, then to the Florida Panthers, and finally to the Pittsburgh Penguins. After finishing the season in Pittsburgh, he would sign a one year contract with the Aneheim Ducks, mainly playing in their AHL up until the season was put to a halt due to the COVID pandemic. Once hockey resumed, Wideman signed in Russia, and was named the KHL’s Top Defenceman of the year. He’d make his NHL return with the Montreal Canadiens after signing a one year deal. He tied for first in points by a defenceman on the team, and re signed to a two year contract.

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Closing Thoughts

There’s nobody left from the 2016-17 team, which is kind of surprising but at the same time, not so much considering an entire rebuild has happened starting literally the next season. I’m excited to see what’s next for some of the players I’ve mentionned, like Mark Borowiecki and Chris Wideman.