21. Ottawa Senators: Blake Fiddler, RHD, Edmonton (WHL)
Fiddler’s size, defensive ability, skating and hardness make him exactly the type of defenseman Ottawa has coveted. Ideally, the Senators would add some skill to their forward group, but a run on forwards before their pick left them without any of the top-tier forward prospects.
Pronman picks Fiddler over Hensler .. Sens have the choice between 2 RD still on the board . Both ranked in the 1st. Fiddler was discussed earlier. In this draft at this range a top 6 forward is somewhat unlikely here. I would not mind Hensler or Fiddler at 21
Hensler played NCAA this year for Wisconsin . He is like Yakemchuk a late Birthday . Oct 6. I think playing in the NCAA is an advantage.
Fiddler played WHL for Edmonston . He is close to a full year younger than Hensler July 9. Much like Dickinson was compared to Yakemchuk.
IMO Fiddler has the makings of a shut down RD and Hensler is more of a 2 way RD ..with skating as as strength.
Although neither are the skilled prospect sought by Fans either of these guys would be solid adds to the prospect pool and this is a valuable position to be rich in assets on.
Neutral Zone on Fiddler
Strengths
Physical Presence and Defensive Play:
Fiddler leverages his 6’4″, 210-pound frame effectively, using his reach to disrupt passing lanes and defend the rush with stick checks and physicality.
He is willing to engage in battles along the boards and clear the net-front with strength and assertiveness.
Strong gap control, particularly in transition, where he uses his size and mobility to contain opponents.
Skating Ability:
Displays a powerful, long stride that allows him to cover the ice efficiently.
Edge work that enables him to pivot smoothly and create space for himself in tight situations.
Despite his size, Fiddler is mobile and capable of joining the rush when the opportunity arises.
Puck Movement and Transition Play:
Reliable puck-mover who can execute hard flat breakout passes when under moderate pressure.
Demonstrates vision and poise, particularly when given time to scan the ice and identify options.
Has shown flashes of offensive potential, particularly when cutting into space at the blue line to open shooting or passing lanes.
Physicality and Engagement:
Can play with an edge, regularly finishing checks and making opponents pay a price in high-traffic areas.
Effective at using his body to protect the puck and box out opponents.
Neutral Zone on Hensler
Strengths:
Skating and Mobility:
Hensler’s skating is one of his strong traits. He moves effortlessly for a defenseman of his size, demonstrating smooth lateral mobility, balance, and an effective / efficient stride.
Although he does not produce consistent points, his ability to extend possession and walk the offensive blue line with poise creates shooting and passing lanes.
His stride and power allow him to close gaps defensively and transition quickly up the ice when exiting the zone.
Two-Way Game:
Hensler is highly effective in transition, using his feet and hockey IQ to generate clean breakouts and line-rushes.
He plays with intelligence in all three zones, showing an understanding of when to join the rush and when to prioritize defensive responsibilities.
His net-front play and board battles are strengthened by his physical presence and reach.
Puck Handling and Offensive Awareness:
Hensler excels at using his feet to open up passing and shooting lanes. His ability to pull pucks off the walls and transition them to offensive transition or scoring opportunities is a reliable offensive asset.
His 89% pass completion rate and ability to generate scoring opportunities (0.76 passes per game leading to shots) show his value as a puck-moving defenseman.
Despite modest shot volume (1.35 shots on goal per game), his shot placement often creates rebounds and secondary opportunities.
Defensive Positioning and Stick Work:
Hensler defends primarily through skating and body positioning, relying on strong gap control, smart defensive routes and an active stick to disrupt plays.
His anticipation and 8 takeaways per game highlight his ability to read plays effectively and win battles through intelligence and timing.
Composure Under Pressure:
Hensler is calm and confident with the puck, showing poise in transition, with the potential to quarterback a second power play unit that relies on shooting.
His willingness to take hits (1.47 hard checks received per game) to make plays underscores his competitive edge, maturity and physical strength.
