The Ottawa Senators, a franchise perennially seeking to solidify its foundational pieces, have long wrestled with a particular strategic imbalance: the right side of their defensive corps. For seasons, the quest for a proficient, puck-moving right-shot defenseman has been akin to searching for a unicorn in the National Hockey League – mythical, highly coveted, and often elusive. General Manager Steve Staios, now in his second season at the helm, has made it abundantly clear this is not merely a preference, but a strategic imperative. His recent acquisition of Jordan Spence signals a pivotal shift, aiming to transform a persistent vulnerability into a newfound strength.
The Enduring Enigma of the Right-Shot Blueliner
In the modern NHL, where speed, skill, and puck possession dictate the flow of play, the importance of a balanced defensive unit cannot be overstated. A defense comprised predominantly of left-shot players, forced to adapt to their off-side on the right, often results in awkward puck retrievals, hindered breakout passes, and a general stifling of offensive zone entries. The Senators experienced this firsthand, particularly with talented left-shot defensemen like Jakob Chychrun, who, despite his capabilities, struggled to consistently perform on his weaker side. This tactical compromise, while sometimes necessary, inevitably limits a team`s potential, acting as a subtle, yet significant, drag on overall performance.
The solution, as Staios has rightly identified, lies in acquiring players who naturally fit the right side. While the long-term vision includes prospects like Carter Yakemchuk and Logan Hensler, immediate impact is often required to bridge the gap. Enter Jordan Spence.
Jordan Spence: The Analytical Darling and Offensive Catalyst
At 24 years old, Jordan Spence arrives in Ottawa from the Los Angeles Kings with a reputation as an elite puck-moving defenseman – a profile that has hockey analytics departments salivating. His ability to efficiently retrieve pucks, initiate breakouts, and contribute to offensive sequences is precisely what the Senators have been lacking from their right side. Statistical analysis from the previous season underscores his value: the Kings’ expected goals rate at five-on-five saw a noticeable improvement when Spence was on the ice. This isn`t just about flashy plays; it’s about sustained pressure and controlling the narrative of the game.
Spence`s 28 points last season, including four goals, might seem modest at first glance, but when contextualized against Ottawa`s anemic production from its right-shot defensemen (a combined seven goals total), his immediate potential becomes starkly clear. The Senators` overall offense, particularly at five-on-five, languished near the bottom of the league last year, a deficiency directly linked to the lack of offensive thrust from their blue line. With Spence, there`s a tangible expectation of not just filling a roster spot, but actively sparking the attack.
A Confluence of Talent and Motivation
Beyond his on-ice capabilities, Spence brings a potent blend of ambition and circumstance to his new team. As a restricted free agent at the end of the upcoming season, his performance will directly influence his next contract. This personal motivation, combined with his desire to firmly establish himself as a top-four defenseman – a role he couldn`t quite solidify in Los Angeles – creates a compelling narrative. When asked about his contract situation, Spence remained steadfast, stating, “I think it just matters how I play this season.” This focused mindset is precisely what a team looking to ascend needs from its new acquisitions.
The challenge, as it often is for players of his archetype, lies in his physical game. At five-foot-ten, Spence isn`t known for his crushing hits or intimidating presence. Ottawa has seen both ends of this spectrum: the sublime success of an Erik Karlsson, whose offensive genius transcended physical limitations, and the more challenging integration of an Erik Brannstrom. The key for Spence will be to leverage his exceptional hockey IQ and puck skills to negate any perceived physical disadvantages, much like many successful modern defensemen do.
Reshaping the Defensive Landscape
The arrival of Spence dramatically alters the Senators` defensive depth chart. The previous season often saw the team stretched thin, relying on stop-gap measures. While Nick Jensen, acquired after Jakob Chychrun`s departure, provided some stability on the right side, a long-term solution with offensive upside was still needed. When Jensen returns from his off-season hip surgery, head coach Travis Green will find himself with an enviable problem: an abundance of competent options.
A projected defensive corps, even before accounting for Jensen’s return and the continuous development of prospects like Yakemchuk, hints at a dramatically improved and balanced lineup:
- Sanderson – Zub
- Chabot – Jensen
- Kleven – Spence
- Additional depth: Matinpalo, Yakemchuk
This configuration offers balanced pairings, allowing players to perform on their natural side and optimize their strengths. The presence of Spence, in particular, should alleviate pressure on other defensemen to generate offense and allow the entire unit to function with greater cohesion and fluidity.
The Road Ahead: An Era of Renewed Optimism
The acquisition of Jordan Spence is more than just a roster move; it`s a statement of intent. It underscores Steve Staios`s commitment to building a fundamentally sound, strategically balanced team capable of competing at the highest level. The Senators, who recently made the playoffs for the first time in a while and now harbor a self-proclaimed “Stanley Cup mindset,” understand that true contention begins from the back end.
With Spence anchoring the right side, bringing his puck-moving prowess and analytical upside, the Senators appear to be on the cusp of truly unlocking their offensive potential while shoring up a critical defensive component. The days of awkwardly forcing left-shot players onto the right may soon be a distant memory, replaced by a blue line that is both effective and exciting. For Ottawa fans, the future on the right side of the defense looks considerably brighter, and perhaps, a little less unicorn-like.
