Full Breakdown
Ottawa Senators Trim Training Camp Roster Ahead of Preseason Games
9/26/2025, 10:12:36 PM
Senators Make Significant Cuts to Training Camp Roster
The Ottawa Senators have reduced their training camp roster by 17 players as they prepare for their upcoming preseason games in Quebec City. This decision leaves the team with 31 players, consisting of three goaltenders, ten defensemen, and eighteen forwards. The cuts were made ahead of two scheduled preseason matchups against the New Jersey Devils and the Montreal Canadiens on September 28 and September 30, respectively.
Details of Player Assignments and Waivers
Eight players were assigned directly to the Belleville Senators of the American Hockey League (AHL): Matthew Andonovski, Tyler Boucher, Jake Chiasson, Jorian Donovan, Tomas Hamara, Jackson Parsons, Oskar Pettersson, and Djibril Toure. Additionally, five players—Wyatt Bongiovanni, Xavier Bourgault, Cameron Crotty, Garrett Pilon, and Hunter Shepard—were placed on waivers, allowing other NHL teams the opportunity to claim them before they are assigned to Belleville.
Four players on AHL contracts who participated in Ottawa's camp on professional tryouts—Philippe Daoust, Landen Hookey, Jamieson Rees, and Keean Washkurak—were also reassigned to Belleville. The Senators' management is focused on developing these players in the AHL, with many expected to play significant roles in Belleville's upcoming season.
Implications for Player Development
The cuts reflect the Senators' strategy to prioritize player development within their AHL affiliate. For instance, Tyler Boucher, a former 10th overall draft pick, is expected to gain valuable experience in the AHL after struggling to find his footing in previous seasons. Similarly, Jackson Parsons, who was recognized as the OHL Goaltender of the Year, will likely compete for a starting role in Belleville.
Xavier Bourgault, who was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers, is also under scrutiny as he aims to solidify his position in the organization. The Senators hope he can clear waivers and continue his development in the AHL, where he recorded 26 points last season.
Official Statements & Responses
The Senators' management has emphasized the importance of these roster decisions in shaping the team's future. The focus remains on providing young players with the necessary experience to compete at higher levels. As the team transitions to Quebec City for training, they will continue to evaluate the remaining players in camp.
Criticism & Opposition
While the roster cuts have been largely expected, some analysts have raised concerns about the potential impact on team chemistry and the development of younger players. Critics argue that placing several players on waivers could disrupt their momentum and hinder their growth within the organization.
What's Next for the Senators
The Senators will continue their training camp in Quebec City, where they will hold practices and compete in two preseason games. The outcomes of these games will further influence the final roster decisions as the team prepares for the regular season. With competition for spots intensifying, players will need to demonstrate their skills to secure a place on the opening-night roster.
