NHL Atlantic Division Preview: Ottawa Senators

2017-2018 Overview

The Ottawa Senators finished second from last in the Atlantic Division and the NHL with a record of 28-43-11 and 67 points. The year before, the Senators finished one goal short of a berth in Stanley Cup finals.

Off-Season Moves

The Senators re-signed restricted free agents Mark Stone (cover photo), Chris Wideman, Magnus Paajarvi, and Patrick Sieloff. Cody Ceci also re-signed after arbitration.

Additions: At the 2018 draft, the Senators selected Brady Tkachuk fourth overall.

On the trade front, the Senators traded captain, All-Star, and two-time Norris Trophy winning defenseman, Erik Karlsson, to the San Jose Sharks. This blockbuster trade also included Francis Perron. In return, Ottawa acquired Chris Tierney, Dylan DeMelo, Josh Norris, Rudolfs Balcers, a 2019 or 2020 first-round pick, a 2019 second-round pick, and two conditional picks.

The Senators signed unrestricted free agents center Adam Tambellini and goalie Mike McKenna.

Subtractions: Earlier this summer, off-ice issues forced the Senators to ship Mike Hoffman to the Sharks along with Cody Donaghey and a 2020 fifth-round pick. In return, they received Mikkel Boedker, Julius Bergman, and a 2020 sixth-round pick.

Returning Stars

Matt Duchene and Stone are the returning stars this season. Duchene is the Senators top center. He collected 49 points in 68 games, including 43 points in his last 45 games. Stone registered 62 points in 58 games.

Breakout Bets

A major youth movement is underway in Ottawa. Keep an eye on Tkachuk, Thomas Chabot, Logan Brown, Colin White, Filip Chlapik, and Christian Wolanin this year.

What to Expect

The Ottawa Senators went from unexpectedly great in 2017 to unexpectedly terrible in 2018. While rebuilding, the team is apt to remain active on the trade front. Although Ottawa has potential to surprise with their NHL-ready prospects, expect the Senators to finish near the bottom of the Atlantic Division.

Cover Photo: Adrian Wyld/CP

Billy Morrison covers the Ottawa Senators and the NHL’s Atlantic Division for Full Press Coverage. Follow Billy on Twitter @BillyMorrison01.

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