Zachary Senyshyn-Right Wing, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
Zachary Senyshyn was THE surprise pick of the 2015 NHL Draft. Pegged by most to land somewhere in the Second Round, Boston was harshly criticized for selecting Senyshyn 15th Overall. As an OHL rookie battling for ice time on a veteran Greyhounds squad, Senyshyn had still managed to score 26 goals. Boston saw the potential.
Senyshyn potted 45 goals in 66 games last season, and is just getting better; he currently sits at 24 goals and 35 points in just 31 games. That’s 69 goals in less than 100 games…..bonkers.
Puck Prose
Senyshyn was surprisingly left off of Canada’s WJC roster (he was among the last players cut), hopefully adding even more fuel to his reported fire/desire to improve.
His combination of dangerous speed, finishing ability, and tenacity on the forecheck would be a tremendous addition to a Boston forward group lacking pop and sizzle these days. Moreover, the 6 foot 2, 195 pound Senyshyn already has the size to withstand the physicality of the NHL. Still just 19 years old, he needs to round out the defensive side of his game and improve his play without the puck. A string of ailments prevented Boston from getting a solid look at Senyshyn in this past year’s training camp and preseason, adding, even more, intrigue to his performance with the big boys next September.
Could He Make the 2017-18 Roster?
For varying reasons, it’s doubtful that Ryan Spooner, Jimmy Hayes, and Dominic Moore will be back next season….not to mention the possible Expansion Draft-plucking of Matt Beleskey. With spots up for grabs and Boston starving for offense, I’m betting on the kid to make Boston’s Opening Day roster. Should Senyshyn require some refinement it’s important to note that he’ll be AHL eligible next season; his days in the OHL are numbered.