Bobby Ryan resigns with Ottawa
For those who expected the Senators to eventually trade winger Bobby Ryan, it just won’t happen. It was clear the Senators intended on keeping Bobby Ryan after acquiring him from the Anaheim Ducks in 2013. So on Thursday, the Ottawa Senators signed Ryan to a lucrative seven-year-deal worth 50.75 million dollars.
The deal is broken down as follow: $6.5M in the first year, $7M in the second, $7.25M in the third and $7.5M in each of the final four years. The cap hit is worth 7.25 million for the entire length of the contract. His deal also include a partial no-trade-clause where Ryan would have to submit a list of ten teams if the Senators were faced to trade him. He has one year remaining on his current contract at 5.1 million dollars a year.
When interviewed about his new contract, Ryan stated that the decision to stay as an Ottawa Senator was a “no-brainer”. He likes the city of Ottawa, and the intent to start a family in Ottawa is part of his plan. “We’re very, very happy that we were able to get it done,” added Ryan. “I promise you we’ll give it everything we have night in and night out to uphold our end of the contract.”
In 2013-2014, Ryan recorded 23 goals for 48 points in 70 games played. He started the season with departed center Jason Spezza, but the offensive chemistry never materialized itself and Ryan retrieved his offensive clutch when paired with center Kyle Turris. Bobby Ryan 27, was acquired from the Anaheim Ducks in July of 2013 in exchange for Jakob Silfverberg, Stefan Noesen and a 2014 first-round pick, which the Ducks used to select forward Nick Ritchie, 10th overall.
Erik Karlsson named the new Ottawa Senators captain
In other news on this Thursday, the Ottawa Senators made another announcement by naming their new 2014-2015 captain, Erik Karlsson. The star defenceman takes over as the captain, a position left vacant with the summer trade of Jason Spezza to the Dallas stars. The 24 years-old is a previous Norris trophy winner three years ago and last year recorded his first 20-goals season.
Drafted 15th overall by the Senators in the 2008 NHL Draft, made his Senators debut in the 2009-10 season, scoring five goals and 26 points in 60 games.
At Thursday’s press conference, Karlsson made the following comment: “I’m a little bit nervous actually as I don’t know what to say,” said Karlsson. “It’s a good feeling. It’s an honor to be a captain of a Canadian team and it’s not something that I could have hoped for when I came here, but I embrace it and I’m very much looking forward to the responsibilities to come. I am right now a very happy guy and I look forward to the upcoming season.”
Moen’s days could be soon over with the Canadiens
It is obvious as the Habs are getting younger and better the days of 14 seasons veteran Travis Moen are numbered. He has a lengthy contract for a player with a defensive and pugilistic role and the scars of the battle are starting to slow the winger down. Even too slow for a Montreal Canadiens who thrive on speed and puck control.
With recently signed free agent Manny Malhotra this past summer and the emergence of former Vancouver Canucks Dale Weise during last year’s playoff run, and the presence of a healthy Brandon Prust, Travis Moen finds himself holding by a thread due to its one-way contract to a roster spot. Michel Therrien has been using Malhotra and Weise with Brandon Prust in what will almost certainly be the team’s fourth line this season. And there is also Michael Bournival who is not a known for fighting but is faster and can play solid defense. Needless to say, Moen appears to be the odd man out.
Moen has been rumored during the camp as being in trade discussions but his contract may be the obstacle. Unless the Montreal Canadiens assume a portion of his salary. Moen had two goals and 10 assists in 65 games while earning $1.85 million and he has two seasons remaining on his four-year, $7.4-million contract.
