3) Ron Hainsey may well be back next season
Ron Hainsey is an enigma to many and polarizing to others. As an example, for everyone who raves about his ability to regularly log big minutes, there are just as many people who say he’s too soft.
Hainsey has always had the key attributes you look for in a blue liner — such as size, mobility and versatility — but has often been frustratingly inconsistent during his career. And yet he has still lasted 17 seasons in the NHL and has a resume which includes a precious Stanley Cup win with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
When the 38-year-old landed in Ottawa prior to this season, it was tough to predict what to expect from him. However, he has proved to be a reliable member of the team, serving as an alternate captain, providing invaluable leadership and even leading the Senators in plus/minus rating.
When taking all of this into account, it’s entirely possible Hainsey will be back in Ottawa next season. As reported by Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, coach D.J. Smith is pleased with how the veteran defenseman has played.
"“On a daily basis, he deals with (Thomas Chabot) and he’s got him playing really well. He’s teaching these guys and that’s like having an extra coach. “That’s something we’ll discuss with Pierre (Dorion), but in saying that he’s done a phenomenal job and he’s done exactly what we brought him here to do, to provide some leadership, some stability and help Chabot grow, and I think he’s done that.”"
While this is theoretically good news for Hainsey, you still have to factor in what he actually wants to do. After all, he will be an unrestricted free agent after this season, while also allegedly contemplating retirement.
In this respect, it will be up to the Senators to persuade the 2000 13th overall draft pick that returning to Ottawa is a worthwhile decision. Given that the team will likely not contend again in 2020-21, you imagine they will have to improve on his current contract of $3.5 million.