**High Hopes: 5 Reasons Why the Ottawa Senators Could Take a Big Step Forward**
Ottawa Senators fans have endured a tough stretch, with no playoff appearances since the 2016-17 NHL season. Despite another disappointing season with just 37 wins in 82 games, there’s hope that the Senators could finally turn things around. Here are five reasons for optimism:
**1. A Young Core**
Ottawa has built a strong foundation with young talents acquired through the NHL draft. Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson are key players. At 24, Tkachuk, the team captain, has six NHL seasons under his belt and recorded 37 goals and 37 assists last season. Stutzle, at 22, had 18 goals and 52 assists this past season, down from his previous season’s performance. Sanderson, turning 22 this summer, showcased his defensive skills and contributed 10 goals and 28 assists. Other young core members include Josh Norris (25), Drake Batherson (26), Thomas Chabot (27), and Artem Zub (28). To complement this young core, the team needs more veteran leadership.
**2. Upcoming Changes**
The Senators are likely to see significant roster changes. Jakob Chychrun, who cost the team a first-round draft pick and more, may be traded as it’s unlikely Ottawa will extend his contract. Erik Brannstrom could also be on the move. These changes aim to enhance the team’s competitiveness.
**3. New Coaching Leadership**
Travis Green, recently named the Senators’ new head coach, brings a fresh perspective. Green aims to instill a culture of accountability and defensive responsibility. Previously, he served as interim head coach for the New Jersey Devils and head coach for the Vancouver Canucks. His challenge is to create a winning mentality within the team.
**4. Stability in Hockey Operations**
Rob DiMaio has been hired as the director of player personnel and professional scouting, bringing experience from his time with the Anaheim Ducks and St. Louis Blues. The team’s hockey operations staff also includes Dave Poulin and associate GM Ryan Bowness. Interim GM Steve Staios, known for his patience, will lead the team into his first full season as general manager, providing much-needed stability.
**5. Improved Goaltending**
The Senators need significant improvements in goaltending. Joonas Korpisalo’s 3.27 goals-against average highlighted defensive weaknesses, and his performance as a starter was inadequate. If the Senators can offload Korpisalo’s contract, they might look for upgrades via trade, targeting goalies like Linus Ullmark, Juuse Saros, or Jacob Markstrom. However, if Korpisalo stays, the focus will be on strengthening the defense to reduce opponents’ scoring opportunities.
Overall, with a blend of youthful talent, strategic changes, new coaching, stable operations, and potential goaltending improvements, the Ottawa Senators have reasons to look forward to a brighter future.
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