The Ottawa Senators' rebuilding phase is going to be a long one and it starts with next season. Although there are some bright spots in the lineup, ultimately they stand to lose the majority of their games. After a myriad of departures, Heatley, Havlat, Chara, etc., this team dug it's own grave. MacLean will be a valuable addition behind the bench with a loads of coaching experience on every level (IHL, UHL and NHL). Having served under Mike Babcock for several years, MacLean knows what to do. Murray, the GM, isn't new to the game either. These two are the right men for the journey.
The few bright spots on offense include Alfredsson, Spezza, Butler and Michalek. Other than these four players, the offense is fairly thin. Alfredsson is a 15-year veteran with skills still left in the tank. Although he's 38 years old, he was able to put up 31 points in an injury-riddled, 54-game season. Respectable. While his points are important to this club, his leadership is going to be more vital to the future. Clarification: this is not leadership. Spezza is a tremendous all-around player. Like Alfredsson, he was injured for a good portion of last season but still accumulated 57 in 62 games. Although he finished last season in the negative, he did play 20 minutes a night. He will be relied upon heavily next season, both for points and leadership. Is he worth $7 million a year? If anyone is on this team, I s'pose it's him. Michalek is a fast winger who once played with the likes of Thornton and Marleau in San Jose. Unfortunately, this organization doesn't have the same level of talent. Still, Michalek has some valuable attributes that need to shine next season for the team to get out of the NHL's basement. Butler only played 36 games last season with club, but achieved more than most expected - 21 points. If he continues to progress, and I expect him to, he should breakout next season with the opportunities presented to him. Filatov was traded for a third-round pick. As a former first-round selection, GM Murray figures there's more to gain than lose from this transaction. Filatov has speed and skill, but he has yet to flaunt it. Neil is a pain in the butt for his opponents. When he's on the ice, every player on the other team in constantly looking over his shoulder. He won't put points on the board, but will have a nice collection of bruises. Da Costa recorded no points for the Senators in the four games he played last season. Expect him to get more ice time next season. Foligno played well last season. He didn't perform as well as management anticipated, but I think his development will continue this season - maybe 40-45 points. Regin is a young forward I was really forward to blossoming last season. Unfortunately, he fell under the shadow of Butler's performance. He will have a better campaign this year - count on it. Condra was a pleasant surprise last season as he earned 11 points in 26 games. His ice time will definitely increase this season and so will his numbers. Winchester doesn't see a ton of time on this team, but he's a reliable forward. He's not the most talented forward, but he does work hard. Konopka fights. I don't know what else to say about a player who accumulated 572 penalty minutes over the past two seasons. Sheesh! Smith and Greening fill out the last two roster spots. Both have chipped in here and there, but to keep their positions they must produce more.
Offensive Score: D
Altogether, the defense's total plus minus was a negative 106. This is despicable. There are some talented individuals on this team, but their defensive responsibilities must improve. Karlsson is the future of the Senators' blue line. Although he was a -30, he did put up an impressive 45 points, good for second on the entire team. He is only 21 and plays more than anyone else on the team, other than Anderson obviously. Gonchar is severely overpaid for what he brings to the table. He's definitely still an important piece of the defense, but isn't the same player that dominated in Pittsburgh. That will happen when you play for a bad team. $5.5 million? Ouch. Kuba is another valuable piece of this squad, but hasn't produced like in the past. His 16 points last season were the worst of his career. Look for a bounce-back, contract year. Phillips is another talented, shutdown defenseman who can't show off his abilities in the organization. He and management are hoping this season doesn't turn out as I predicted. Carkner is a valuable bruiser in his own end. He won't put up many points, but he will stop a few. If the gloves need droppping, look sfor Carkner to be the guy. Runbald and Lee will be fighting for the last spot. More than likely, Lee will be the individual selected, but one can never tell. It all depends how camp progresses.
Defensive Score: D+
Goaltending is one area the Senators can count on. Anderson has always played for sub-par teams, but truly is a gifted goalie. He's tall and agile - a tough combination for scorers. If there is one saving grace this coming season, it's going to be Anderson.The team brought in a very capable backup as well: Auld. He has been a backup for almost his entire career and will be a solid substitute when Anderson needs a rest.
Goaltending Score: B+
Get ready for a long season in Ottawa.
No comments:
Post a Comment