BDevils Profile: Prospect Goaltender Gilles Senn Round II

If there is one thing to take out of this abbreviated schedule this season for the Binghamton Devils, it would be the progress of goaltender Gilles Senn. This marks his second year and has played in two games so far for the 2-2-0-1 BDevils with some improved play. His record reads 0-2-0 record with a 2.55 GAA and 0.932 SV%, but that falls short of the overall story.

Outside the stats sheet, Senn has been a rock in the cage while stopping 68 of 73 shots in his two appearances. I have made it known beforehand on social media through my Twitter account on his potential to move up the ladder, and so far I stand behind it as Senn has been someone to keep an eye on.

What two factors stand out is his agility in net with a 6’ 5” frame and how quickly he is able to regain net presence once he is off his knees, and the glove is a work in progress but it’s coming along rapidly.

Binghamton is a really young team overall, but specifically when you look at the blue line, so it’s been a challenge for the Switzerland native but the more games he faces in the AHL, the additional experience he will gain on North American soil.

Photo Credit: JustSports Photography / Binghamton Devils

You’ll recall my profile series chat concerning Senn with fellow Panel member Emily back on Feb 12, 2020, as I caught up with her recently and she had this to say following his two games so far for Binghamton;

“Last season, I talked about how strong a player Senn is and how solid a game he is capable of playing. Since making the transition from European play, he has made leaps and bounds in his development and growth. I am comfortable saying he has made the transition and adjustment to the North American style of play.

The biggest difficulty this year seems to be the revolving door of players moving between NJ and Binghamton, especially considering how close they are playing this shortened season. Between Senn himself moving and the players in front of him constantly changing, the BDevils as a whole has had a difficult time finding a solid rhythm of play. There have been glimmers of good hockey mixed in with games that have been downright a struggle to watch.

I think all of this is important to share because the months that passed with no playing time and now the oddities of this season have impacted Senn’s game. He is still the bright spot of our team and there’s no question about the potential for his future. However, there is rust and he’s fighting an uphill battle with the team in front of him.

Last year, I referenced the importance of Senn getting another full season as a starter in the AHL before I considered the possibility of a role with the big club. Unfortunately, that’s just not going to happen this year. The style of this season means Senn is going to have to make adjustments to compensate. He’s also going to have to work to shake off any rust when moving between the Taxi squad and Binghamton if that happens again. I still think he needs to get in a real solid number of games as a starter and I know he will rise to the occasion.

With only two games played so far for Binghamton this year, it will be interesting to see if he remains solid as the season continues. I remain hopeful that he will show the talent he exuded last year and the team as a whole can find its stride. The 6’5” netminder is exciting to watch... but the fate of the season can’t rest on his shoulders alone.”

For all those that follow Binghamton Devils hockey, you can also see past reports with Emily’s Goalie Clinic as she has been a loyal fan over multiple seasons. There are also many involved within The Panel with a passion, but without live game action in Binghamton, it’s been a reach for several members. We will achieve a full staff next season.

The Devils are set as I believe Senn will be a factor for the foreseeable future backing up Mackenzie Blackwood. It likely will remain on hold through this season, with the current additions of Scott Wedgewood and Aaron Dell, but the future looks bright.

Thanks for reading as I will have more with the Profile Series coming up soon!