Predictions- Ottawa Senators

Team: 2022-23 Ottawa Senators

Initial Creation Date: Aug. 31, 2022

Published: Aug. 31, 2022

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

Ottawa will finish 5th in the Atlantic. The Senators had the best offseason out of every team in the Atlantic Division. After ending last season 10-5-1, they land Giroux who will provide leadership to young guns like Stutzle, Pinto, Norris, and Batherson. Ottawa honestly fleeced Chicago in the DeBrincat trade, he adds a much-needed goal scoring presence in their top line. However, whether he still has the 40-goal vibes is a question mark, given the fact that Patrick Kane is no longer his linemate. Norris also can provide that, but I see him as a high-end 2C, while Stutzle is the 1C. Don’t forget that the Senators have Jarventie and Greig in the mix as well. Sanderson adds a two-way presence on the defense and Brannstrom is poised for a breakout season. Goaltending, Talbot is a better addition than Murray. Forsberg established himself as a low-end starter, playing really well last year. Overall, this Senators team improved a lot, but there are still some holes in the bottom six and after Talbot’s contract is up, whoever becomes the starting goalie is a question mark. Ottawa will be competitive, but in the end, they will miss the playoffs. The Atlantic is tough competition. I could see them getting 3rd or 4th if they don't get injury issues.

For young players, the Senators could get a full season of Kastelic. Did well in the Calder Cup playoffs after getting some NHL ice time. Also Sanderson and Bernard-Docker on the same pair would form amazing chemistry, the two were buddies in the NCAA.