As the Senators rookies and prospects hit the ice at the Canadian Tire Centre, all eyes were on Tyler Boucher, the 10th overall pick in the 2021 draft. This right winger has faced a string of injuries in recent years, causing setbacks in his development.
Last season, Boucher missed rookie camp due to a groin injury sustained during off-ice training. Initially expected to return for main camp, the injury turned out to be more serious, delaying his debut with AHL Belleville until December. With just 21 games played in the AHL in 2023-24, Boucher managed to score two goals and five points before suffering a left shoulder injury in February, leading to his second shoulder surgery in less than 15 months. The first surgery came right after the 2023 World Juniors, where Boucher represented Team USA and injured his right shoulder.
“It’s pretty hard, not gonna lie to you. It takes a toll on me,” Boucher shared after Thursday’s training session. “Through [the injuries], I’ve learned a lot, learned about what I need to do. I’m back and healthy. It’s in the past and I’m not looking back, so I’m feeling good.”
Looking ahead, Boucher is optimistic about his health and potential for the upcoming season. “It’s a big year – every year is a big year,” he acknowledged. “But for me, just being healthy again is something I’m excited about. I know what I can do when I’m healthy, and if everything stays fine, I’m not worried about anything.”
Despite the challenges of earning a spot on Ottawa’s NHL roster, Boucher believes that his past adversities have prepared him for the tough road ahead. “A big part of pro hockey is being able to be mentally strong, [and] deal with hard stuff. I never planned on getting hurt, I never do… I gain confidence from overcoming that sort of stuff,” he explained.
Belleville coach David Bell confirmed that Boucher will be in the lineup for the prospects’ upcoming game against New Jersey at the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo this Friday. Bell, who will be coaching the prospects team during the road trip, expressed full confidence in Boucher’s readiness to compete.