While the leaves haven’t started to change just yet, one of the first signs of Fall is quickly approaching.
Yesterday, the Ottawa Senators announced the roster for their Annual Rookie Tournament which will take place in Toronto from September 8th to 10th. Three teams will take part this year as the rookies from the Leafs and the Canadiens join the weekend round robin.
The roster released by the Sens yesterday includes many familiar names along with a few surprises and relative unknowns.
Colin White and Thomas Chabot will both suit up for the Senators as they try to make a good first impression in their push for a full-time spot on the NHL team next year. Logan Brown, Filip Chlapik, Francis Perron, Andreas Englund, Christian Jaros and Marcus Hogberg will all be there too.
Perhaps the most intriguing name among the rookie camp surprises is Pius Suter. The undrafted 21 year old put up impressive numbers in Junior with the Guelph Storm and he’s spent the last few seasons playing in Switzerland. He’s a player that both Marc Crawford and Guy Boucher know a little bit about.
More on Suter from EliteProspects.com
Offensive center that plays a sound all-around game. Never gives up on the play and possesses a versatile set of individual skills. Has a goal scorer’s mindset, but is dependable at both ends of the ice; can contribute in a number of different ways. Though he isn’t the biggest player, that is nullified due to his willingness to battle against bigger players.
He also got off to a pretty good start in the Swiss Champions League.
Could be a player to keep an eye during this year’s tournament and beyond if he can earn a pro contract.
Matteo Gennaro, a former Winnipeg Jets prospect, has been invited after appearing in the Summer Development Camp. Gennaro had 43 goals and 80 points in 69 games with the Calgary Hitmen last year.
The team will be on the ice for their first practice next Thursday.
