As the dust begins to settle on free agency the Ottawa Senators continue to stand pat, but one name is still linked to them, Viktor Stalberg.

Stalberg was a trade deadline acquisition for the Ottawa Senators and although he never really found his game offensively in his short time in Ottawa, he was a responsible defensive forward. A player known for his speed he always presented a threat for a scoring chance on the penalty kill. Now a free agent the Ottawa Senators should look into bringing him back for the 2017-2018 season.

Benefits

Bringing back Stalberg would add stability to the Sens’ bottom six at a fairly low risk. Making just 1.5 million dollars last season, Stalberg would likely sign for a similar number next season. That would be a low risk contract for a player of Stalberg’s defensive value.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of bringing in Stalberg is it doesn’t force the Sens to bring Colin White in if he isn’t ready. White played a few games last season but was heavily sheltered and didn’t necessarily show that he was ready. He will be given every opportunity to make the team next year but if they don’t sign Stalberg they could be forced to play him when he isn’t ready.

Ottawa’s Forward Group

Ottawa currently has 10 forwards signed to one way deals. Additionally they have two RFAs in Pageau and Dzingel who will re-sign this summer. That brings the Sens forward group to 12, which is all they need for any one game. The problem is that if there’s an injury it forces the Sens to turn their lacking depth in the minor leagues for a replacement. Bringing in Stalberg will allow for the Sens to have White play in the AHL if he isn’t ready yet.

Final Thoughts

Stalberg was a player who embraced the system of head coach Guy Boucher in is short time with the Ottawa Senators. Now unsigned almost a week into free agency there’s good reason for the Sens to bring him back. Keeping together as much of last year’s lineup as possible will help in repeating some of last year’s success.