Article content continued

“In the first couple of games, it was just about getting the pace down and the speed up here,” he said. “From then on to now, I’m more comfortable every game, every day coming to the rink. I’m really finding my legs. I never really skated like that before.

“It has been great. I’m making sure I’m taking care of my body. There are a lot of games and I’m making sure I’m doing the right things in the gym to be ready for the next one.”

Batherson knows that nothing is guaranteed. He could very well be back to Belleville seen enough.

Regardless of what happens before and after the Feb. 24 trade deadline, if you look at today’s Senators lineup and think about the handful of current players who are all but guaranteed to be around in two or three seasons, Batherson is right there with Brady Tkachuk, Thomas Chabot and Colin White.

“He has been more physical, but I think that’s confidence,” said Senators coach D.J. Smith. “He’s getting there quicker. He’s skating better. He makes plays. He’s one of the young guys we’re banking on, going forward. He was really good in Belleville, but he has also been very good on this recall. He has really taken a step.”

Photo by PROVIDED / BELLEVILLE SENATORS

Batherson showcased his offensive touch during stretches last season when he played alongside Matt Duchene. Lately, though, he looks more assertive in all facets of the game.

“I can play that way if I want to and (Smith) likes that kind of game,” he said “I played it before in the world juniors. I was a fourth line guy there, kind of a physical presence. That’s what I’m trying to do here and make plays, too. Just being involved in all factors, I guess.”