In a system with a seemingly infinite number of prospects, it's pretty easy for Buddy Robinson to get lost in the shuffle a bit.
Even now, I know some of you went, "Who?" after reading Buddy's name. When the Ottawa Senators inked the Lake Superior State product in March of last year, it was a move that was met with limited fan fare and excitement and chalked up as another roll of the dice on an NCAA project.
And while that is exactly what Robinson is heading into the 2013/2014 season, there's reason to believe Robinson could make a real impact on the Sens organization.
When the Sens let go of Stefan Noesen in the Bobby Ryan trade in early July, Assistant GM Tim Murray was quick to cite the presence of Buddy Robinson as a big reason the team could afford to let Noesen go.
The 6'5, 236 lb power forward is a physical specimen. In two seasons at Lake State he put up a pretty modest 26 points but was highly sought after by a number of NHL teams. It's not hard to see why when you consider his unique combination of size and speed. And at just 21 years of age, there's reason to believe the New Jersey native has yet to reach his full potential.
Fans in Binghamton got a brief look at Robinson last season as he appeared in six games with the Sens' AHL affiliate, putting up four points and looking like he could play at that level. Robinson also participated in the team's development camp back in July.
With so many young players pushing for a spot with the big club this season, it's hard to imagine Robinson cracking the big team this year but he'll certainly be a player worth watching at training camp and in Binghamton this season.
The comments from respected NHL official Kerry Fraser seem to show a player that is already starting to turn heads.
- Thanks to the Senate Golf Tournament, I'll be away from the computer most of the day today. Those of you that follow this site closely will know that likely means Cowen will sign a new contract at some point while I'm on the course. Still think short term deal makes most sense here.
Checking for Charity was great. Jonny Gaudreau was very good. Ott Senator prospect Buddy Robinson demonstrated outstanding talent! Watch him
— Kerry Fraser (@kfraserthecall) August 19, 2013
I think Bryan Murray, Paul McLean & Sens have a good player in Lake Superior State ulum, Buddy Robinson. 6’5″” forward with speed & hands!
— Kerry Fraser (@kfraserthecall) August 19, 2013
