SNAPSHOTS: Michael Del Zotto will do whatever it takes to help senators succeed

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Michael del zotto he has had to make adjustments throughout his 13-year NHL career.

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This one is no different.

Signed as an unrestricted free agent in the summer, Del Zotto, 31, made his preseason debut against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday night at the Canadian Tire Center and this training camp is all about building chemistry with his new partner. Nikita Zaitsev.

Del Zotto has prepared for 710 games in his NHL career and that makes him the most experienced player on the club’s roster.

“He’s quiet, and I’m not, so I’m the one who talks a lot,” Del Zotto said with a smile before facing the Leafs. “But, when we have the opportunity, we are trying to win the chemistry between us by being each other’s eyes and ears. Especially as defenders, that becomes crucial when you go into games.

“The opposition is so fast, especially in our division, that we have to be able to make plays on the fly and hopefully we can get some of that chemistry.”

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One area in which Del Zotto has improved throughout his career is defense and that is why the senators wanted to bring him here. They needed someone like him in the back and the hope is that his presence helps. Thomas chabot get more involved in the offense.

Coach Dj smith He feels that Del Zotto will fit in well with this group and show young players how to do things the right way.

“He had a good year in Columbus. As a coach, you have a lot of respect for coaches who have been in the league for a long time, and John Tortorella is one of them, ”Smith said. “If John Tortorella brings it a second time and places it in those places, trust him.

“That should tell you that he is a detailed player and a true NHL player. There are probably about 10 coaches in the league that have been around that long and when you get a player from them, they are ready players.

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Del Zotto knows the role he has to carve out here. This is a young team and they have to lead the way.

“Definitely off the ice it would be leadership and helping guide some of the younger guys,” Del Zotto said. “You see it every year, injuries are going to happen, some guys struggle, some will have great seasons, so things will change pretty quickly throughout the year.

“Wherever I am in the lineup, I am going to play. I came into the league as a power-playing quarterback, and I’ve played in every situation and in every position. I think my versatility will work well. I just want to win and you talk to anyone in that room and they just want to win. Whatever role I have, I’m ready to do it. ”

A GREAT ACHIEVEMENT

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Zack Ostapchuk He will return to junior with an NHL preseason game under his belt and a new contract.

The club’s second-round pick in the 2021 draft was not only featured against the Leafs, but he also signed an entry-level contract earlier that day. I was programmed to skate in a line with Parker Kelly and Kole Sherwood.

“Zack has had an exceptional camp and we are excited to see him develop this season,” said GM. Pierre Dorion. “He has the necessary tools in terms of size, skill and skating ability that we believe are key attributes in today’s NHL. Zack’s strong sense of hockey and work ethic will serve him well as he tends to become a full-time pro.

“Credit to Trent mann and his hobbyist scouting team who identified a prospect that we believe is on track to help the future of the organization. ”

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Ostapchuk, 18, will soon be returning to the WHL Vancouver Giants, but he’s impressed.

“He’s put himself on the map,” Smith said. “You come into camp as a second-round draft pick this year, and as the NHL’s head coach, you assume you’ll get a chance to coach this guy somewhere along the way. Will it take him two, three, four, or five years to get to the NHL?

“This guy has come in and he deserves an exhibition game. Give credit to our scouting staff. He’s a guy who’s going to be a dominant junior player and a great prospect for us. ”

THE LAST WORDS

Senators and Leafs recognized National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Wednesday night.

Thursday is National Truth and Reconciliation Day and is a legal holiday.

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Before the warming began, there was an acknowledgment of traditional lands along with a detailed history of the tragedy surrounding residential schools and their place in Canadian history. Both the Leafs and Senators wore “Every Child Matters” jerseys before the game and the nameplates on the costumes were orange.

A song of honor was also performed before the opening showdown by the Eagle River Singers, a nine-member group from Kitigan Zibi, Que. Indigenous singer Mary Nahwegahbow in three languages, English, French and Anishinaabemowin on the HD screen.

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Twitter: @sungarrioch