For a long time, the NHL draft felt like the highlight for the Ottawa Senators, a perennial source of hope offsetting the disappointment of consistently missing the playoffs. That era is over. Having recently ended their playoff dry spell, the Senators hold the 21st selection in the upcoming draft.
This represents a shift in perspective for Ottawa. While the future remains exciting, the immediate present holds greater significance for both the fanbase and, arguably, the team itself.
Teams that recently qualify for the playoffs often see their general managers aggressively pursue players who can make an immediate impact. However, a limiting factor for the Senators is their less-than-deep pool of prospects.
Following three consecutive years of trading away first-round selections, the team`s prospect depth is thin, featuring only one considered elite: Carter Yakemchuk, drafted seventh overall last year. Compounding this is the future forfeiture of next year`s first-round pick due to the mishandled Evgenii Dadonov trade.
Consequently, a more cautious strategy for GM Steve Staios might involve keeping the pick to draft a promising young talent. Nevertheless, Staios maintains that “everything is on the table,” leaving open the possibility of trading the pick for an established player like Rasmus Andersson of Calgary or J.J. Peterka of Buffalo.
Regarding prospects, last year in his first draft as GM, all seven of Ottawa`s draft choices measured six-foot-two or taller. While Staios downplayed the focus on size, it will be worth observing if this pattern continues in the current draft.
Should the Senators use the 21st pick, they will probably select the highest-rated player available, as their limited prospect pool doesn`t afford them the luxury of drafting solely based on positional need. Alternatively, the team might consider trading down from pick 21 to acquire additional draft assets, which are greatly needed.
Draft Picks Available:
First Round, Third Round (from Florida), Fourth Round (from San Jose), Fifth Round, Sixth Round, Seventh Round
Potential First Round Selections
Jack Nesbitt, C, 6`4″, 185 lbs, Windsor Spitfires (OHL): Scouting analyst Jason Bukala identified Nesbitt as an ideal fit for Ottawa. He`s a large forward capable of playing both center and wing, known for his strong compete level and effectiveness in front of the net. He`s particularly good in the bumper position on the power play. Last season with Windsor, Nesbitt recorded 25 goals and 64 points.
Bill Zonnon, C, 6`2″, 190 lbs, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL): Zonnon is expected to be available when Ottawa picks at 21. Bukala described him as a “Brady Tkachuk lite,” a comparison likely appealing to Senators fans. Zonnon is highly competitive, big, strong, and effective around the opponent`s net. Similar to Tkachuk, his skating isn`t elite, but he consistently engages physically. If his skating improves, he could become a valuable NHL player.
Blake Fiddler, D, 6`4″, 209 lbs, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL): Fiddler fits the profile of a sturdy, second-pairing shutdown defenseman. He`s large, strong, positionally sound, effective at blocking shots, and an excellent skater. His father, Vernon Fiddler, also played in the NHL. While not projected to be a major offensive contributor, he has the potential to develop into a reliable, elite defensive anchor for the Senators.
Malcolm Spence, LW, 6`1″, 203 lbs, Erie Otters (OHL): Spence represents a potential high-reward pick for the Senators, possessing offensive creativity stemming from his size, speed, and skill. Concerns have been raised about his consistency or “motor.” The Senators typically favor players with a high compete level, but Spence`s peak performance arguably surpasses that of the other mentioned prospects. He posted 32 goals and 73 points for Erie.
Update on Last Year`s Top Pick
Some observers, including this writer, believed Yakemchuk might make the Senators roster directly out of training camp last season. Despite a strong pre-season showing, his subsequent performance in the Western Hockey League seemed to underwhelm some scouts. Nevertheless, the Senators organization reportedly viewed his WHL play positively, and Bukala characterized him as a “workhorse.” His production dropped from over a point-per-game in his draft year to 49 points in 56 games with the Calgary Hitmen this past season.
Yakemchuk possesses soft hands, enjoys physical play, is very strong, and has a creative offensive game highlighted by a powerful shot. However, his skating remains an area needing improvement. He mentioned during training camp last season that refining his skating was a key focus.
Another significant weakness in Yakemchuk`s game (keeping in mind he is only 19) is his defensive zone play and his ability to retrieve pucks at five-on-five, according to Bukala. Last season defensively, he frequently lost his assignments at a rate high even for junior hockey, resulting in Calgary not utilizing him on the penalty kill. If he develops his defensive skills, he has the potential to become an elite NHL defenseman. While some in the Senators organization feel Yakemchuk could be ready for the NHL this season, Bukala is doubtful. This writer shares that skepticism, though Nick Jensen`s significant injury creates a substantial void on the right side of the Senators` defense. The Senators might regret not selecting Zeev Buium, a defenseman drafted by Minnesota who played in their recent playoff run. Yakemchuk`s development this coming season and beyond, whether in the AHL or Ottawa, will be a critical storyline for the Senators` aspiration to transition from a good playoff team to a top contender. A lot rests on his shoulders.
Neville Woodall 
Duncan Priestley