The Senators are past the midway point and sitting in a playoff position.

That’s not a spot anybody expected them to be in. Early-season know-it-alls suggested the Senators would battle for last place ... landing a lottery pick in the NHL draft.

The Senators have gotten contributions from everybody and if they can keep this up, there’ll be meaningful hockey in Ottawa the spring.

We couldn’t really grade Peter Regin or Jesse Winchester. And Brian Lee gets a C-plus for his efforts when given a chance.

With those thoughts in mind, here’s a mid-season report card.

Debate away.

JARED COWEN: B

Rookie should be in the mix for the Calder. Has done his job and played important minutes.

ERIK KARLSSON: A+

Leads NHL defencemen in scoring while keeping the club in the playoff picture. Top of the class.

CHRIS PHILLIPS: B

Has rebounded from a difficult season, and is showing veteran leadership.

FILIP KUBA: A

He’s been a good partner for Karlsson and a major contributor defensively. Has silenced trade talk.

MATT CARKNER: Incomplete

Veteran hasn’t played much due to injuries. Club needs his rugged presence on blue line.

SERGEI GONCHAR: B

Bounced back from last season. Contributes offensively, but is prone to mistakes in his own end.

ALEX AULD: C

Little-used backup must win a few games and be more reliable when given an opportunity.

CRAIG ANDERSON: B+

Numbers aren’t close to what he posted last season, but has made saves when needed.

CHRIS NEIL: B+

Showing veteran leadership, throwing his body around and scoring some big goals.

KYLE TURRIS: Incomplete

Acquisition gives the club depth. Will be given the chance to be the second-line centre.

MILAN MICHALEK: A+

Who would have predicted his career year? Has chemistry with Spezza. Also at top of the class.

DANIEL ALFREDSSON: A+

Captain showing no signs of slowing down at 39. He’s healthy and still a major contributor.

KASPARS DAUGAVINS: C

Has settled nicely into a role on the fourth line after a quick start. Goes about his job quietly.

COLIN GREENING: C+

Bounced back from tough times. Has size, speed and confidence from last season.

ZACK SMITH: B+

Perfectly suited to his role on the third line. Offensive production a big surprise and bonus.

BOBBY BUTLER: C-

Hasn’t been that bad in first half, but must do more of what he’s paid to do: Score goals.

JASON SPEZZA: A+

Putting up points, and more importantly, making the players around him better.

ERIK CONDRA: B

Solid all-around player not here for his offence, but has contributed on the scoresheet.

NICK FOLIGNO: B+

Is finally showing some consistency with flashes of brilliance. A good fit on the second line.

ZENON KONOPKA: B

Has done his job. Provides a presence, veteran leadership and ability to win faceoffs.

bruce.garrioch@sunmedia.ca