Zach Senyshyn on board for Belleville Sens playoff hunt

It’s not hard to notice Zach Senyshyn. The former first-round selection has always stood out as a premier prospect throughout his hockey career.

When the skilled forward became available, the Senators’ organization quickly acquired the 24-year-old local product from the Boston Bruins ahead of the 2022 NHL trade deadline.

The hope is that Senyshyn will become a critical offensive contributor for the Belleville Senators during the stretch drive. The Ottawa, Ontario native has registered 19 goals and 14 assists in 57 games this season. Of course, his services did not come cheap as hard-working veteran defenceman Josh Brown was sent to the Bruins.

“It’s been a whirlwind but also super exciting, “Senyshyn said of the trade. “Coming back home is incredible. Honestly, it’s a little bit nerve-wracking coming into a new group this late in a season, but everyone has been so welcoming, and it’s been awesome getting to know the guys.”

“I have a ton of respect for everyone in this room and what they’re able to bring, and I know what they’re capable of, so I’m excited to hopefully help them.”

Senyshen possesses many tools, his innate ability to score combined with an excellent shot is likely his best asset and will be a critical component on an AHL Senators team that currently ranks in the bottom five in the Eastern Conference with only 183 goals for.

“I’m just here to play my game, and obviously, they traded for me for a reason, and I’m here to do everything I can to put the puck in the net.”

While some players may feel the pressure to place lofty expectations themselves, Senyshyn believes he can best help his new team by continuing to evolve.

“I think my biggest goal is to find my identity and execute that to the best of my ability with this new team. I try never to set statistical goals or anything like that. I like to develop my game. I think over the whole course of my pro career, it has been a steady progression of working on developing my game and growing each year. I’m just hoping to take my skills and learn from this new coaching staff and continue to grow and develop my game.”

Although Senyshyn already has 14 NHL appearances to his credit and ultimately wants to return to hockey’s highest level, he would like nothing more than to suit up for his favourite team growing up.

His current focus remains solely on helping Belleville qualify for the postseason.

“Right now, it’s about the Belleville Senators and helping them win and finding my game here, and hopefully I am able to make that jump, but for now my number one goal is to help this team win.”

Submitted by: Joel Vanderlaan / @JoelVanderlaan