The American Hockey League could only hold him for so long.
Drake Batherson is finally on his way to Ottawa. The Senators announced late yesterday that they have recalled the 20 year old prospect from Belleville. He is expected to join the team in time for practice later today.
Batherson, fresh off AHL Player of the Week honours, has been red-hot for the BSens this year. Through 14 games, he’s racked up an incredible 20 points. Just a point back of Brooks Macek for the league lead and when it comes to rookies, he’s seven points clear of the next closest guy.
While it’s unlikely that the Senators expected Batherson to be up with the big club so soon, his play down there really hasn’t given them much choice. He’s dominated AHL competition and looks more than ready for an NHL opportunity.
Batherson with the steal + BEAUTY feed to Balcers!
3 point night for the The Drake 🚨🍎🍎 pic.twitter.com/T1E7DTU4xt
— Sens Prospects (@SensProspects) November 10, 2018
It will be interesting to see where he slots into the line up.
Nick Paul was returned to Belleville early yesterday and he team still hasn’t provided an update on the status of Colin White.
Either way, if the organization is recalling Batherson at this stage, it’s not to play a bottom six role. In a year where they are clearly making development a top priority, it’s crucial that they give Batherson a legitimate shot and with top players.
On the right side with Matt Duchene and Ryan Dzingel would be a great place to start.
The Senators are on the ice for practice at 10:30 AM this morning.
***
A few quick updates from practice earlier today.
As instructed, Guy Boucher started Drake Batherson on a line with Ryan Dzingel and Matt Duchene. Colin White missed practice but is still considered hopeful for Thursday’s game. Zack Smith was also a regular participant and is expected to play on Thursday.
Assuming Colin White is good to go, here’s how the Senators are expected to line up…
Dzingel-Duchene-Batherson
Tkachuk-White-Stone
Boedker-Tierney-Ryan
Pyatt-Smith-Paajarvi
Normally I would also list the defence pairings but I think I’ll just leave on a high note.
