The 2024-25 Ottawa Senators do feel different and one reason, other than what we have discussed recently, is their depth-chart at the forward position. For starters, Michael Amadio is a great example of highlighting the key differences. The differences being those between this year’s Sens team, and ones of years’ past, that failed to qualify for spring hockey. So let’s understand just how good the Sens depth is.
Ottawa Senators Forward Depth Chart
If we look back to Tuesday’s night matchup versus the Montreal Canadiens, there was a lot on the line. Even though the Sens and Habs are 4-5 in the NHL’s Atlantic Division standings, the Sens are the better defensive team. And part of the reason, is their depth upfront.
Itsa me, Amadio! When Michael Amadio made it 2-1 with over seven minutes left in the second period to give the Sens the lead against the Habs, it was just going to prove our thoughts of how important he can be for the team.
Amadio does only have 22 points on the year on ten goals and 12 assists. In contrast, when you consider he does so in just over 14 minutes a night and on a 14.9% shooting, he is rather efficient. He puts in responsible minutes and tows the line. At 5v5, he does lead the Sens forward group in shooting talent above average at 11.9%. See, efficiency.
Building a Foundation to Not Repeat Past Mistakes
Amadio does really highlight the strengths of the 2024-25 Ottawa Senators. One of the key differences between this year’s team and previous teams has been the depth. However, not so much the overall on paper appearance of depth, but more so relevant to the actual production. Even from this year, trading away Zack Ostapchuk was a clear example. The depth was not producing, as he only had four points in 43 games played.
A note on Ostapchuk is that he should be a fine NHLer. He skates hard and has good size. Moreover, he has toughness and even soft hands down low. The one drawback with the Sens and at this point of his career was he needs ice time. Whether at the AHL or NHL level, he will really begin to develop once he is played 15 to 17 minutes a game. With the Sens making a concerted push to the postseason this year, that extra time was not warranted.
In the past for the Ottawa Senators, their forward depth chart needed to produce more. Whether it was Mark Kastelic, Egor Sokolov, or Rourke Chartier, these guys had plenty of opportunity, but simply needed more offence. Now, it is not necessarily a requirement for depth forwards to produce offensively. Sometimes all that is needed is to be able to grind out games or bringing physicality. Conversely, now that we see the depth guys producing for Ottawa, we see what a difference maker it truly can be.
Shane Pinto is a constant reminder for opponents how good the Sens depth can be. After a strong start, Adam Gaudette is still maintaining strong stats with 16 goals and only plays 10:31 a game. Matthew Highmore has proven to be an invaluable piece, and can throw a hit or two when needed. Then, the Sens were able to add Fabian Zetterlund as a supporting-role cast member. Zetterlund has a ton of potential upside still. His career highs from last year goals (24), assists (20), and points (44), are all in jeopardy this season. He’s yet to get going for Ottawa, but hasn’t been playing nearly regular enough for it to be any type of concern for Sen fans.
The depth is why injuries to players like Nick Cousins or David Perron having missed significant time, have gone largely unnoticed. This year’s Sens team is ready to go, one through 12 on the forward group. Whether that is Amadio or Gaudette or now Zetterlund, the Sens can and will get it done in crunch time.
Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
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