Andrew Rodger The Hockey Writers May 6, 2010
Vochenkov is the most important piece to the Senators’ free agent puzzle this summer. A key element in shutting down the opposition’s top forwards, he will be difficult to replace should he leave. With a salary in the $2 to $3 million dollar range the past few seasons, he is certainly entitled to a raise. However, the Senators have always operated with their own value system under Murray’s leadership. If Volchenkov asks for more then they think he is worth; he could be on the move for next season. In 428 NHL games, all with Ottawa, the native of Moscow has accumulated 16 goals and 94 points during his career and he is a +61. Last season, injuries limited him to 14 points in 64 games but he is not an offensive defenceman; Ottawa needs him for his hits and shot blocking abilities. In 352 games played since the lockout, Volchenkov has delivered 832 hits on his opponents and blocked an astounding 1,023 shots.
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