One Step Closer: Phil Daoust Continues His Push Toward the NHL

After years of development within the Ottawa Senators organization, Phil Daoust’s hard work paid off this summer.

The 24-year-old forward re-signed with the Senators, earning an NHL contract after putting together the strongest season of his professional career. Through 63 AHL contests, Daoust recorded 14 goals and 50 points, and with that contract earned a reward that validated both his performance and the organization’s belief in his future. “It means a lot, pumped to be back in 613 Country and just super excited to be back and I’m looking forward to it.”

For Daoust, the contract wasn’t just about putting pen to paper. It was the next step in a journey that he believes has him knocking on the door of the National Hockey League. The Barrie, Ont., native is entering his sixth year with the organization and, though his path has been different from many others, the goal remains the same.

“Obviously it feels pretty good,” Daoust said. “I felt I had a really strong year last season and I think management thought the same, I think we were both on the same page. I really wanted to be back. I love Ottawa and I love Belleville so it was a mutual decision. I think I earned that contract and for me the next step is to go to the NHL and I feel like I’m really close, so I’m going to pick the right brains and have a strong summer.”

Since the season came to an end, Daoust has returned home to Barrie, where his offseason has revolved around training, skating and preparing for another opportunity in the Senators organization. For him, it has been the same old routine.

“Nothing too crazy, just back home in Barrie and you know, I’ve been working out and skating a ton. I’ve been skating in Barrie and Muskoka with Gags (Sam Gagner – Director of Player Development for the Senators), but it’s just been the same old me, though I’m also golfing a ton as well.”

Working alongside Sam Gagner has provided another valuable learning opportunity for the former sixth-round draft pick. With more than 1,000 NHL games under his belt, Gagner’s experience has become another resource as Daoust continues chasing his NHL dream.

“They have a ton of great players up in Ottawa and Gags is great,” Daoust said. “I don’t know exactly how many NHL games he’s played but I’m super pumped to have him in my corner. Just to be able to pick his brain is cool because he’s obviously done a lot of good in the NHL and has the knowledge to teach.”

While Daoust is focused on his own development, he’s equally excited about the direction of both the Belleville Senators and their NHL affiliate. The organization made several additions this summer, reinforcing its intention to compete for both an AHL championship and a Stanley Cup. Though Daoust doesn’t know any of the newcomers personally, the excitement is still high as Belleville looks ahead to its 10th anniversary season.

“It’s been great. A lot of skill has been brought in. I think all the players they’ve signed so far can make that jump and make both Ottawa and Belleville better teams. Those guys all match our DNA of hard work, so I think they’re great additions. The intention that Steve and Matt have is to be competitive and to go deep in the playoffs, and I think this year we’re going to be very competitive.”

That commitment from management has only added to the motivation within Belleville’s dressing room after the club narrowly missed the Calder Cup Playoffs last season.

“100%. I think the intention behind management is to compete for a cup and for us it’s to be competitive as well, so bringing in these players who are very skilled players but also have a good amount of pro experience is key. Last year we weren’t satisfied but I think this year with the moves they made we’ll be a competitive team and go far.”

Another reason for optimism is the return of head coach Andrew Campbell, who officially had the interim tag removed earlier this summer. Like many in the dressing room, Daoust was happy to see Campbell return behind the bench. He credits Campbell’s communication and player-first approach as key reasons why the players are excited to have him back for this season and beyond.

“He’s a really good player-coach, loves to develop players, and it’s really easy to talk to him and pick his brain. Being recently retired, I think he brings a good perspective, and he knows how the game’s played, which is a huge thing. He’s always been very honest with me and given me lots of opportunities, so I can’t thank him enough for that, and I’m pumped he’s back. Just pumped for him to get a real shot and I think he’s going to do great in it.”

Having spent the first five years of his professional career in Belleville, Daoust has also watched the organization continue to grow both on and off the ice. Since the Senators arrived in Belleville in 2017, the club has become an integral part of the city’s sports landscape, bringing professional hockey to a passionate community. For Daoust, the veteran leadership inside the dressing room and the support from the Belleville community have played a major role in his development.

“I think just the veteran leaders that we’ve had over the years, like Dillon Heatherington and more recently Garrett Pilon, have taught me a lot, and they’re just great guys. But I also think the fans play a big part. They are always showing up to the games and being passionate. Just happy to be back again.”

As training camp draws closer, Daoust’s focus remains unchanged. The offseason will continue to revolve around skating, workouts and one final golf trip with friends before all attention turns toward September.

“Yeah just working hard, being at the gym consistently, and skating a ton with Gags. For me I have a golf trip coming up this weekend with my buddies as we head over to Nova Scotia to play Cabot Cliffs, so I’m looking forward to that. After that it’s going to be pretty lowkey for me. Just sticking around here and just making sure I’m ready for camp because I’m looking forward to it.”

For Daoust, signing another NHL contract marked an important milestone, but not the destination. With another strong summer behind him and the confidence of the organization at his back, the next goal is clear: turn that contract into a full-time opportunity in Ottawa.

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