DETROIT — Matt Puempel says his career has been all about taking small steps.
On Monday, he received his first regular-season chance to impress Senators coach Guy Boucher, replacing Phil Varone in the lineup against the Detroit Red Wings.
Puempel was a healthy scratch for the opening two games.
“Each year as a pro, I’ve got a little bit farther in training camp and this time, I got to be on (the) opening-day roster,” said Puempel, who grew up in Essex, Ont., just across the Detroit River from the Joe Louis Arena. “Last year, I survived the camp, but got sent down (to Binghamton of the AHL) the next day.