Let's talk about the Ottawa Senators and their defense corps, a topic that has sparked some interesting debates among hockey enthusiasts. Personally, I find it fascinating how a team's strategy can be so intricately tied to the players they have and the roles they fulfill.
When it comes to the Senators, their defense is an area of focus, but not necessarily a top priority. Why? Well, they've got some solid pieces in place, and with a bit of fine-tuning, they could really elevate their game.
The Current Lineup
The Senators have a strong defensive core with Jake Sanderson, Artem Zub, and Thomas Chabot leading the charge. Sanderson, despite missing some games due to injury, has proven his worth, finishing high in Norris Trophy voting. He's got a reliable partner in Zub, and Chabot, while a bit of a question mark, has shown he can perform with the right support.
The real standout here is the third pairing of Tyler Kleven and Jordan Spence. This duo dominated throughout the season, showcasing their skills and contributing to the team's success.
The Chabot Conundrum
Chabot's performance is an intriguing aspect. He's had some great partners in the past, like Dylan DeMelo and Nick Jensen, who brought out the best in him. The key seems to be finding a competent, stay-at-home defender to complement his style.
One potential partner is Nikolas Matinpalo, an Olympic medalist with a simple, effective playing style. While it might seem unconventional, this pairing could bring out the best in both players, improving their production and defensive prowess.
Finding the Right Fit
So, who should the Senators target to round out their defense? Ideally, another stay-at-home right-handed defenseman who can work well with Chabot and Sanderson. The free agent market offers some options, but the Senators might have to overpay due to other teams' desperation for similar players.
I've narrowed it down to three realistic targets: Trevor van Riemsdyk, Nick DeSimone, and Dylan Coghlan. Each brings unique skills and could fit well within the Senators' system.
The Case for Each Player
Trevor van Riemsdyk (WSH): Despite his age, TVR could be a great fit alongside Chabot. He has above-average skills in rush and cycle chance suppression and average puck-moving abilities. The challenge is convincing him to sign for just one year, given the Senators' other contractual obligations.
Nick DeSimone (UTA): An undrafted player who finally got his chance, DeSimone has proven his worth with the Utah Mammoth. He's reliable defensively and could be a cost-effective option, especially with his younger age.
Dylan Coghlan (VGK): Coghlan is an intriguing prospect, having played with top defensive teams like Carolina and Vegas. While he hasn't had consistent playing time, he's currently in the Stanley Cup Final. The Senators could offer him a larger role and potentially raise his stock.
The Bigger Picture
What makes this analysis particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into team strategy and player evaluation. The Senators have a solid foundation, and with the right additions, they could become a formidable force. It's all about finding the right pieces to complement the existing talent.
In my opinion, the Senators should focus on supporting their key players like Tim Stützle, Linus Ullmark, and Chabot. With the right support, they can elevate their game and become a real contender.
So, will the Senators make the right moves? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: the future looks bright for this team.
