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3 PTO signings Ottawa Senators could consider before preseason ft. Cal Clutterbuck
The Ottawa Senators will head into training camp with a talented young core. Captain Brady Tkachuk will lead a team filled with up-and-coming stars like Tim Stutzle, Josh Norris and Drake Batherson, among others.
Nevertheless, the Senators could use veteran talent to round out its roster, supporting the club’s young stars. Here’s a look at three PTO candidates Ottawa may consider with training camp roughly a week away.
3 PTO signings Ottawa Senators could consider before preseason
#1. Victor Mete
The Ottawa Senators may consider bringing back a familiar face in Victor Mete. Mete has bounced around the league since last playing for the Sens in 2021-2022. He's spent time with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers.
Last season, Mete suited up for just one game in Philadelphia, spending the bulk of the season in the AHL. Mete could serve predominantly as an AHL defenseman. However, he could jump to the big club if injuries become an issue on the blue line.
Moreover, Mete would hardly cost an arm and a leg. He could join Ottawa on a two-way deal, giving the team flexibility to send him down to the AHL if he doesn't make the team.
From there, the Sens could recall Mete if need be. Ultimately, Mete offers flexibility without costing significant cap space.
#2. Justin Schultz
Schultz spent last season with the Seattle Kraken, appearing in 70 games. Schultz registered seven goals and 26 points for a Kraken team that missed the playoffs.
Overall, the 34-year-old has plenty left in the tank. While he is not the same blueliner as he was with the Washington Capitals, Schultz remains an effective depth defense option. He could slide into the Ottawa Senators’ bottom four rearguards, providing a solid veteran presence.
Last year, Schultz had a $3 million cap hit in Seattle. This season, Schultz may be motivated to agree to a one-year deal closer to $1 million as a show-me contract. Schultz could be encouraged to show he’s still worthy of one more multi-year deal.
#3. Cal Clutterbuck
Clutterbuck was part of the New York Islanders’ “identity line.” However, the club has moved on from Clutterbuck, allowing him to explore free agency.
As a predominantly bottom-six forward, Clutterbuck has plenty of grit and toughness to offer, even at 36. The Sens could use plenty of that, considering they play in the stacked Atlantic Division. The Sens will need to face highly physical teams like the Boston Bruins and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Thus, adding a hard-nosed veteran forward like Clutterbuck should help the Senators stand up to more physical opponents.
At this point in his career, Clutterbuck should cost no more than a league-minimum deal. If he has a strong camp, the Sens could explore signing him to a two-year deal instead of just the one-year pact. Overall, the leadership and presence Clutterbuck brings to the table should help the Senators evolve into serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
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