Senators Sign Drake Batherson to Entry-Level Contract

Pierre Dorion said this morning that there was a 49% chance the Senators would add an extra forward before the roster deadline today at 5:00 p.m. It appears he’s followed through (sort of), as 2017 4th round pick Drake Batherson has signed an entry-level contract. This comes a day after Alex Formenton, the Sens’ 2nd round pick in 2017, was also signed to an ELC.

Batherson has been impressive for the Sens over the summer, with a good showing at development camp and the rookie tournament (two assists in two games). Drafted at age 19, the Sens really liked his combination of speed and skill, with the hopes that he can reach new heights at an older age than most draftees.

Playing for the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles in 2016-17, Batherson scored 22 goals and 58 points in 61 games during his first full season in the QMJHL. This was good for 9th in points per game amongst players born in 1998 or later, as the top of the QMJHL leaderboard was made up mostly of overagers. He’s off to a hot start again this season, with two goals and two assists in his first three games, leading his team. He scored a highlight reel goal yesterday.

Drake Batherson's 2nd of the #QMJHL season was a beauty🚨

He has been a game star in each of his first 3GP⭐️ (1st, 2nd, 3rd)

2G, 2A in 3GP pic.twitter.com/yGA2f5kIlM

— Sens Prospects (@SensProspects) October 2, 2017

Batherson’s been praised mostly for his soft hands, although when it comes to the centre’s play there aren’t any outstanding holes. Hopefully he can have a big season with Cape Breton and join the Belleville Senators for the 2018-19 season.

You can read our Top 25 Under 25 feature on Batherson here, where he ranked #21.

Here is a short highlight package of Batherson from the Sens’ development camp, courtesy of Sens Prospects. Batherson is #66 in white.