Here are five storylines to keep an eye on for the Ottawa Senators as they head into the 2025-26 NHL season:

1. Can the Senators Build on Last Season's Playoff Success?

After finally breaking their playoff drought last season, the pressure is on the Ottawa Senators to prove they are a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. Making the playoffs was a success, but the organization and fans alike expect more. The goal for 2025-26 should be to not only make the playoffs but also advance to the Eastern Conference Final. The Atlantic Division is expected to be highly competitive, with teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, Detroit Red Wings, and Montreal Canadiens all vying for a top-three spot. The Senators need to establish themselves as one of the top teams in the division and consistently compete with the league's best.

2. How Will the Defense Pairings Shake Out?

One of the biggest questions heading into the season is how the defense pairings will look, particularly on the right side next to Thomas Chabot. Nick Jensen's health is a concern as he recovers from hip surgery. If Jensen is not ready to start the season, newly acquired Jordan Spence could step into that role. Spence has shown promise and could be a good fit with Chabot. If Jensen recovers, the Senators will have to decide whether to reunite him with Chabot or ease him back in on the third pairing with Tyler Kleven. The emergence of young defensemen like Carter Yakemchuk adds another layer of intrigue. Yakemchuk is expected to compete for a spot on the roster and could bring a mix of physicality and offensive ability to the blue line.

3. Will Leevi Meriläinen Seize the Backup Goalie Role?

Linus Ullmark is the clearcut starting goaltender, but the backup role is up for grabs. Leevi Meriläinen is the frontrunner to win the job after an impressive performance in limited action last season. In 12 games, Meriläinen posted a .925 save percentage and demonstrated the potential to be a long-term fixture in Ottawa. However, he still needs to officially secure the backup role over Mads Søgaard. If Meriläinen can continue his strong play and transition to a full-time NHL role, it would provide the Senators with a reliable and exciting goaltending tandem.

4. Can Key Players Elevate Their Game?

For the Senators to take the next step, their core players need to perform at an elite level. Tim Stützle is expected to become a point-per-game player and a strong two-way center. Drake Batherson needs to surpass the 70-point mark and avoid plateauing. Shane Pinto needs to have a breakout season as he enters new contract talks. The Senators also need Dylan Cozens and Fabian Zetterlund to build chemistry with their teammates and contribute consistently on offense. Cozens, in particular, needs to provide consistent secondary scoring behind Stutzle.

5. The Development of Prospects

While the Senators' prospect pipeline isn't considered among the league's strongest, the development of their young players remains crucial. Carter Yakemchuk and Leevi Meriläinen are the most likely prospects to make an impact in the upcoming season. However, other players in Belleville, such as Donovan Sebrango and Angus Crookshank, will need to show progress and potentially earn playing time in Ottawa. The organization needs to identify and develop players who can contribute to the team's future success.