Tyler Boucher expected to make season debut for Ottawa Senators’ AHL affiliate after injuries

Tyler Boucher is expected to make his season debut for the Belleville Senators tonight, suiting up against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at home in Belleville.

Boucher hasn’t suited up for a game in any league this year due to a lingering groin issue. He has been continuously working to return to the lineup but suffered numerous setbacks.

The former Ottawa Senators’ 10th overall pick will be eager to prove that he was worth such a high selection. At this point though, the important thing is for him to stay healthy and get into the groove of professional hockey. The Belleville Senators are currently tied for fifth place in the North Division with a 10-10-2-2 record. They could use a strong, offensive player to add to their lineup.

Boucher has dealt with many injuries throughout his career and that is the main reason he hasn’t been able to meet his expectations so far. During his draft year, Boucher was a member of the U.S. National Development Team but only played five games for them that year due to injuries. After being drafted he decided to go the college route, ultimately choosing to play for Boston University. Boucher played half a season with BU before switching to the Ontario Hockey League because the college route wasn’t the best place for him to play.

Over two years with the Ottawa 67’s, Boucher played 45 games and scored 17 goals and 31 points in that span. Those aren’t bad stats but most people expected him to tear up the OHL as a 10th overall NHL pick. Again, injuries are likely the proximate cause why he didn’t have more success in the OHL.

The Senators signed Boucher to an entry-level contract during the 2022-23 season and was designated to play for the Belleville Senators this season. He will be making his professional debut tonight.