-Yesterday we learned that top prospect Colin White is expected to return for another season at Boston College. Pierre Dorion made it clear he wants to take it slow with White so the news doesn’t come as a huge surprise. I do think the Senators would have preferred White play in the American Hockey League next year but their preference for taking it slow probably led White to the conclusion that an extended NHL call-up was unlikely.
-Three Ottawa Senators got their World Championships started yesterday in Russia. Cody Ceci had an assist and was a +1 in a 5-1 Team Canada win. Chris Wideman was named player of the game for Team USA in a loss. Mark Stone was held pointless. As far as Stone goes, it’s just nice to see him back on the ice. The last time we saw Stone, he was on the wrong end of that massive hit by Dustin Byfuglien.
-The Senators came up short in their pursuit of North Dakota forward Drake Caggiula as the talented forward has committed to signing with the Edmonton Oilers. Ottawa was a serious contender early on in this process and probably the favourite at one point. Had North Dakota’s season ended before the end of the NHL regular season, I really think the Senators would have got something done. Didn’t work out that way. Will be interesting to see if the organization turns their attention to any other NCAA free agents. Haven’t really heard any other names rumoured but maybe they change their focus after missing out on Caggiula.
-Based on everything I heard following yesterday’s interview with Bruce Boudreau, it certainly seems like things went pretty well. In fact, it’s reached a point where I would be surprised if someone other than Boudreau ends up being the next Head Coach of the Ottawa Senators. He wants the job and the Senators (including the Owner) want him. I don’t believe that they got to the point where an offer was made during yesterday’s five hour interview but I do think Pierre Dorion is getting close to that point. You don’t want to downplay the whole contract hurdle but if both sides are committed to making it work, then it should. Boudreau is scheduled to return home today but as Garrioch mentions in his article, there’s a chance they could ask him to stick around a little bit.
-It’s Mother’s Day tomorrow. Don’t forget.
