What Happened
Jake Sanderson returned to practice, a positive sign for the Ottawa Senators ahead of their season opener on Saturday. The team is coming out of a compressed training camp after the NHL shortened the pre-season and added two regular-season games. Ottawa had to wait nearly a week while other clubs began their schedules. Thomas Chabot, now captain, leads a group seeking to build on consecutive playoff appearances.
Key Details
- Jake Sanderson practiced, indicating he should be ready for the season opener.
- Ottawa opens its regular season on Saturday.
- Thomas Chabot is the Senators' new captain.
- The Senators have reached the playoffs in each of the last two seasons.
- Ottawa has not won a playoff series since 2017.
- The NHL shortened the pre-season and added two regular-season games, compressing camp.
What It Means
Sanderson's return to practice is important for an Ottawa blue line that will be counted on heavily. With a compressed camp and a delayed start, the Senators have had less game action than most teams. Chabot's captaincy marks a new leadership era, and the club faces pressure to turn consecutive playoff appearances into a series win.
What's Next
Ottawa opens the regular season on Saturday. The team will look to integrate Sanderson back into the lineup and adjust to the new 84-game schedule after a shortened pre-season.