Senators to Discuss Extension With Elite Young Defenseman

As the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, big things were expected of big defenseman Jake Sanderson. He did not disappoint. 

The 6'3" blueliner had an impressive rookie year, notching 28 assists and 32 points while getting a robust 21:55 time on ice per game. Those assist and point numbers were the third-most in Senators history by a first-year D. He was rewarded with a spot on the 2022-23 NHL All-Rookie Team, and now it appears that he'll be rewarded by the Ottawa Senators with a multi-year extension. 

At least that's the word from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, who reports that GM Pierre Dorion "will sit down for discussions later this summer" on a long-term deal with Sanderson.

Showing already after just one season the playmaking skills of a first-pairing D, and power play quarterback, he is certainly someone the Senators should look to lock up well into the future. 

Sanderson, 21, is headed into the final year of his entry-level contract. Could the team be looking at a deal similar to that of Thomas Chabot (8-year deal, $8M AAV)? It would not be out of line at this point. 

Photo: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports