The 2024-25 season has seen some battles in the AHL and NHL for 28-year-old Zack MacEwen. In the Ottawa Senators' third game of the season, MacEwen shocked people with a surprising two-goal game. MacEwen then would record an assist in early November.
After his assist, MacEwen struggled deeply. MacEwen went pointless in the next 11 NHL games he played in and got limited ice time. MacEwen saw stretches in the AHL and looked well with his offensive production, but then he took an immediate leave of absence from the Belleville Senators' roster on Jan. 21 due to personal reasons.
When MacEwen returned to the lineup in March, a fresh start was needed. Now, MacEwen has helped Belleville out big since his return.
MacEwen's return has impacted Belleville in March
Since his return in early March, MacEwen has been a big productive player for Belleville. Over the past five games, MacEwen has recorded seven points by recording two goals and five assists.
MacEwen has recorded three two-point games during the stretch. Against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins on March 8, MacEwen recorded a two-goal game.
Prior to returning in March, MacEwen had only recorded one two-point game in the AHL. Now, MacEwen has three two-point games since his return, which has been a big boost for Belleville.
Since MacEwen has returned, Belleville has won four of its six games. This past weekend against the Bridgeport Islanders, MacEwen recorded three assists and +3 rating in the two games combined to help Belleville earn two big wins against Bridgeport.
MacEwen's play will be continued to be relied on as Belleville chases a playoff spot. With Belleville having a current 28-21-4-4 record, every game matters. Belleville will start a home-and-home against the Toronto Marlies on Friday night at CAA Arena.