The Matt Duchene Trade: Three Questions with Mile High Hockey

With the dust now settled from yesterday’s blockbuster trade, the season must still go on. Matt Duchene will play his first two games as a Senator against none other than the Colorado Avalanche, giving Sens fans a first look at what we should expect from the centreman. To provide some expectations going in, however, we shall look to none other than those who have already watched him for years: Avalanche fans.

Tom Hunter from Mile High Hockey answers three questions about expectations for Duchene and implications of the trade.

1: What should Ottawa’s expectations be for Matt Duchene? How would you describe his style of play?

Tom Hunter: Matt Duchene is a dynamic offensive player that is a threat and still one of the fastest skaters in the NHL. He has looked comfortable again this season and has been making his line mates better - particularly Nail Yakupov.

2: With a big dip in production last season, should Sens fans be worried about Duchene’s production going forward?

TH: I don’t think so. He has looked great offensively this season. He’s creating scoring chances and still has the elite speed. He hasn’t been playing on the top PP unit so that has had an impact on his production. A little more PP time and some stronger wingers and we should see his production bounce back up.

3: What does Colorado’s return mean for the organization going forward?

TH: It means that they know they have a long way to go before they can be a contender. The two key pieces are Girard and Bowers, they instantly slot in as top U20 guys in the organization right up there with Cale Makar and Tyson Jost. The organization is very strong on the right side of the blue line so Sam Girard balances that out a little.

Sakic loves guys like Shane Bowers, responsible two way forwards that like to develop in the NCAA.

Thanks to Tom for taking the time to answer these questions.