The Ottawa Senators are bringing in some relatively young, but experienced depth up front. The team has announced the signings of forwards Matthew Peca and Logan Shaw to one-year, two-way contracts. Peca, who finished this past season in Ottawa, will make the minimum $700K in the NHL and $300K in the AHL, while Shaw has a slight advantage with a $725K NHL value and $375K AHL value.
Shaw, 28, may actually end up being a difference-maker for Ottawa this season. The big forward quietly played a semi-regular role for the Winnipeg Jets this season, playing in 35 NHL games versus just 16 AHL games. And while he didn’t contribute much offense – just five points – he was playing behind a deep, talented forward corps in Winnipeg. With the potential for more opportunity in Ottawa, Shaw could have a chance to shine. He recorded 27 goals and 46 points in 63 AHL games just two years ago and if even a portion of that output translates to the NHL, Shaw could be a bargain scorer for the Senators.
Peca, 27, was acquired by the Senators from the Montreal Canadiens at the trade deadline this past season in what was little more than a tryout for a new contract this season, which he seemingly passed. The small, hard-working forward has not been able to much in the way of offense in the NHL but has done enough to stay in the lineup on multiple teams and accrue some valuable experience. Peca could be a reliable bottom-six option for the Senators this season.