Ottawa Senators' Star Forward Starting To Look Like His Old Self Again

After enduring three shoulder surgeries in recent years, Josh Norris is finally back to full health and making an immediate impact for the Ottawa Senators. Through the first 16 games of the season, the 24-year-old center has been one of the team's most impressive and consistent performers, not only contributing offensively but also playing a key role in the team’s defensive success.

With 7 goals and 12 points in 16 games, Norris is on pace for a 36-goal season, which would mark a significant leap forward from his injury-plagued 2022-23 and 23-24 campaigns. Even more remarkable is the fact that most of his production has come at 5v5, where he’s been the most dangerous. Just two of his seven goals and four of his 12 points have come on the power play, highlighting his effectiveness at even strength and his ability to produce in a variety of situations.

Despite this strong start, however, there is a note of caution: Norris is currently converting on an impressive 22.6% of his shots, well above both his career average (17.6%) and the league average. While it’s possible this shooting percentage could regress to the mean as the season progresses, there’s no denying that Norris is capitalizing on his opportunities at a high rate right now.

Beyond his goal-scoring ability, Norris has also shown a level of all-around play that’s been critical to the Senators' success, particularly in the defensive zone. He leads all forwards on the team with 16 blocked shots, a testament to his commitment and awareness on the defensive side of the puck. Additionally, he leads all centreman on the team with 18.3% of his shift starts beginning in the defensive zone (via MoneyPuck). This speaks to coach Travis Green’s trust is Norris to protect his own zone.

His physicality has been notable as well, with 38 hits, putting him second on the team behind only the ever-physical Brady Tkachuk. Norris has been engaged in all areas of the ice, contributing not only with his offensive game but also with a willingness to play a hard-nosed, two-way style.

Another area where Norris has excelled is in the faceoff circle. He has taken the most faceoffs on the team (215) and has a strong 55.8% success rate on those draws, which is well above the league average and ranks second on the team among players who have taken at least 50 faceoffs. This is an important aspect of Norris’s game, as winning faceoffs can help set the tone for both offensive and defensive plays. His ability to take on this responsibility and perform at such a high level has provided the Senators with valuable puck possession and control in key situations.

Overall, Josh Norris has been a revelation for the Senators this season. His combination of scoring ability, two-way play, physicality, and faceoff success has made him one of the most well-rounded and impactful players on the roster. If Norris can maintain this level of play and avoid injury, he has the potential to have his best season to date.

Even if his shooting percentage regresses, his all-around contributions make him an integral part of Ottawa's growth and success.

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