Ottawa Senators Sign Forward Tyler Motte

Tyler Motte with the Vancouver Canucks in 2020
Tyler Motte with the Vancouver Canucks in 2020. Photo by Canadian Press/Shutterstock (10749646f)

The Ottawa Senators signed Tyler Motte on a one-year, $135 million contract, the team announced on Wednesday. Prior to becoming a free agent, Motte started last season at the Vancouver Canucks before being traded to the New York Rangers during the playoffs.

While unable to score during the regular season, Motte averaged 12:33 on the ice as the Canucks went on to secure a playoff spot. The 27-year-old player scored twice for the Rangers during the playoffs to lift the team to two playoff series wins.

Senators general manager Pierre Dorion expressed excitement at the arrival of Motte, calling him a “tenacious checker who plays the game with pace.” Dorian added that “He’s a strong penalty killer and another competitive person who adds to the depth of our group.” Motte has also emerged as a strong penalty killer, making him both a strong defensive and offensive option.

Drafted in the fourth round by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013, Motte is yet to complete an entire NHL season, managing a career-high 74 games in 2018-19. This may change in the coming year, however, as Motte’s versatility is something that the Senators may make use of throughout the season.