The Ottawa Senators have sent defenseman Carter Yakemchuk to the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Junior League, the team announced Monday morning.
The seventh overall pick of the last draft shone during the preparatory games with two goals and five assists for seven points in four games. Both of Yakemchuk’s goals were game-winners, including an overtime game-winner against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
“Carter had an extraordinary training camp, but we made this decision in the best interest of his long-term development,” explained Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios in a press release. . “We had a healthy conversation with Carter this morning and expressed that we have a plan for his development that will allow him to flourish once he arrives in the National Hockey League full-time. We look forward to watching his growth and trajectory in Calgary this season.
The 19-year-old spent the 2023-24 season with the Hitmen, collecting 30 goals and 71 points in 66 games.
The Senators open the regular season Thursday at home against the Florida Panthers.
