The Ottawa Senators announced today that they have re-signed forward Josh Norris. Norris was a restricted free agent this summer. Now, he will look to be a crucial part of a young and upcoming Senators team that wants to take another step. Norris signs an eight-year contract worth $63.6 million, or $7.95 million AAV.
News Release: The #Sens have signed forward Josh Norris to an eight-year, $63.6M (7.95M AAV) contract: https://t.co/G838pQIYAn pic.twitter.com/K5sWpsR19m
— Sens Communications (@Media_Sens) July 14, 2022
Sens Re-Sign Josh Norris
Norris has become a much more important piece to this Sens team than anyone would have guessed just a few seasons ago. Apart of the infamous Erik Karlsson trade, Norris was always considered a solid prospect, but his ceiling was never agreed upon. Most saw his upside as a possible second-line centre. However, since he debuted with the Sens, Norris has done nothing but impress.
“It’s been a long time sitting out and watching but I’m healthy and that’s all that matters.”
Josh Norris is BACK tonight❗️ #GoSensGo
📝 https://t.co/iRnoMpytWr pic.twitter.com/lskMpMxGhk
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) March 3, 2022
His insane shot might be the best weapon that Norris boasts. The release is one that almost no goalie can handle when he gets the shot off. It led to a 35-goal campaign in the 2021-22 season. This came in just 66 games too, which was a 43-goal pace. On top of that, Norris has had solid defensive impacts in his short career with Ottawa. The former 19th overall pick might not be the level of a “Franchise” centre, however, he will be a crucial part of any playoff hopes Ottawa has over the next few seasons.
Going Forward
It will be interesting to see which of Norris and Tim Stutzle take the true description of the number one centre for this Sens team. Both are capable, with Stutzle’s ceiling a little higher. Regardless, Norris has the potential to be a dominant player on a second line and one of the better second-line centres in the league.
With this contract, the Sens can now focus on improving their team further to make it back to the playoffs for the first time since the 2016-17 season. It has already been a busy week with the Senators adding Cam Talbot, Claude Giroux, and Alex Debrincat. Look for Norris to assist on the Sens improvement and build off of his career year from last season.
