0
0
Ottawa Senators’ Disappointing 2023-24 Season
Heading into the 2023-24 season, the Ottawa Senators were carrying high hopes and promise. The youthful team had shown improvement, finishing with 86 points, the most since their last playoff appearance in 2017, indicating progress in the rebuild. With the core players gaining a year of experience, the Senators were viewed as potential playoff contenders.
However, the season did not unfold as expected. To start, Shane Pinto, a key centre, received a 41-game suspension for violating NHL gambling policies even before the season commenced. Shortly after, the team’s former GM Pierre Dorion was dismissed following league penalties for mishandling Evgenii Dadonov’s no-trade clause.
Not long after the GM change, head coach DJ Smith was replaced by Jacques Martin for the remainder of the season. Towards the end of the season, another crucial centre, Josh Norris, underwent a third shoulder surgery, ending his campaign prematurely. This tumultuous season marked Michael Andlauer’s debut season as the team’s new owner.
The Senators finished the season with 78 points, a significant step back from the previous year. Nevertheless, expectations for the upcoming season are high. Despite holding the seventh overall pick in the draft, the Senators are no longer in a rebuilding phase but are expected to compete at a higher level in the next season.
Travis Green: The New Head Coach
Recently, Travis Green was introduced as the 14th coach in Ottawa Senators’ history, signing a four-year contract. General Manager Steve Staios emphasized that Green’s appointment allows for the nurturing of his system and style. With Green’s arrival, focus now shifts to Staios, who faces significant tasks ahead in reshaping the team.
During Green’s introductory press conference, several key points were highlighted.
Why Senators Chose Travis Green
While some hoped for a more seasoned coach or a Stanley Cup winner, Green’s track record includes only one playoff appearance during his time coaching the Vancouver Canucks. Despite his somewhat limited success, Staios defended the decision, citing the broader context that affects coaching performance.
Green’s experience includes a Calder Cup Final appearance with Utica and serving as an associate coach with the New Jersey Devils. Staios acknowledged the complexity of evaluating a coach solely based on win-loss records.
Green’s Coaching Philosophy
Green describes himself as a demanding coach rather than a tough one. He emphasized his commitment to pushing players to reach their potential and focusing on individual needs. Green values building player confidence and tailoring his coaching style to specific requirements.
Bright Spots and Challenges Ahead
The Senators faced multiple challenges during the 2023-24 season, struggling with defensive play, special teams, and overall performance on the ice. Green’s approach will likely revolve around improving defensive play and instilling a sense of commitment among the team.
As the coaching staff evolves, various decisions remain pending. Green aims to build a cohesive team around him and prioritize the well-being and development of his players. Notably, past franchise stars like Daniel Alfredsson have played influential roles in the organization’s recent operations, hinting at a potential coaching role for Alfredsson in the future.
Green’s coaching staff is a work in progress, emphasizing thorough decision-making and collaboration with management to form the ideal team. The Senators are transitioning into a new era under Green’s leadership, where the focus is on improvement, development, and achieving success in the upcoming seasons.
Image/Photo credit: source url
