Senators forward Zack Smith eager to show off his offensive flair
OTTAWA — Zack Smith believed he was capable of more, but just needed an opportunity to prove it.
Last season the Ottawa Senators forward turned heads when he posted career numbers with 25 goals and 36 points. Suddenly the player known for his defensive abilities was showing an offensive flair, and this season he’s determined to prove it wasn’t an anomaly.
“I’ve always been a late bloomer in everything I’ve done so I’m 28 now and I don’t feel I’ve been playing near my best hockey yet so it’s nice to be getting better every year,” said the Maple Creek, Sask., native. “Now getting a chance to play not only regular PK, but on the power play too, which is something I haven’t had an opportunity to play in a long time. I think last year was a big step in that I can produce offensively if put in that role.”
The problem is Smith, who has played over 400 NHL games, has rarely been given offensive opportunities.