The Ottawa Senators have sent a clear message to the rest of the league: they will not be pushed around anymore. The acquisition of Kurtis MacDermid from the New Jersey Devils is a direct response to the team’s need for more toughness, a need that was glaringly obvious after their preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens. While some may look at MacDermid’s stat line and question the move, those who understand the nuances of the game will see the value in this trade.
More Than Just a Fighter
At 6-foot-5, MacDermid is an intimidating presence on the ice. He’s a player who isn’t afraid to drop the gloves and stand up for his teammates. But to label him as just a fighter would be a disservice. MacDermid is a player who understands his role. He’s not going to put up big points, but he’s going to make the opposition think twice before taking liberties with the Senators’ skilled players. He brings a level of grit and sandpaper that has been sorely lacking in Ottawa.
A Stanley Cup Pedigree
Let’s not forget that Kurtis MacDermid was a member of the 2021-22 Stanley Cup-winning Colorado Avalanche. While he didn’t play in the playoffs that year, he was around a championship team and knows what it takes to win. That kind of experience is invaluable in a young locker room. He can mentor the younger players and help instill a winning culture. This move is about more than just adding a tough guy; it’s about adding a player with character and a winning pedigree. The Ottawa Senators are a better team today with Kurtis MacDermid in the lineup.
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I think acquiring Kurtis MacDermid was a smart move for the Senators. They definitely needed some grit and toughness in the lineup. Excited to see how he fits in!