The Ottawa Senators have a mix of promising prospects who could make an impact in the 2025-26 season. After making the playoffs in 2025, ending a long drought, the Senators are looking to build on that success and become a top team in the Atlantic Division. While their prospect pipeline is considered weak by some, a few players have the potential to step up and contribute to the NHL club. Here are three prospects to keep an eye on:

1. Carter Yakemchuk (RHD, 19)

Drafted seventh overall in 2024, Carter Yakemchuk is a highly touted defenseman with the potential to become a key player for the Senators. After nearly making the NHL roster out of training camp last fall, he was returned to the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL) for his final season of junior hockey. Yakemchuk used the experience of being sent back to junior and not being named to Canada's National Junior Team as motivation to improve his game. He had a strong season in the WHL, and led Calgary to its first playoff series victory since 2019. Listed at 6'4" and 207 lbs, Yakemchuk possesses a blend of size and skill that makes him an intriguing prospect. He has the potential to be more than mediocre in the NHL. There's a good chance that he will at least start the year in the NHL.

2. Leevi Meriläinen (G, 22)

Leevi Meriläinen, drafted 71st overall in 2020, is a goaltender who is projected to be the full-season backup for the Senators. Meriläinen posted an impressive 8-3-1 record with three shutouts and a .925 save percentage in 12 games. He is considered one of the best goaltending prospects and is expected to be a long-term fixture in Ottawa. With Anton Forsberg potentially heading to free agency, Meriläinen could step in as Linus Ullmark's understudy.

3. Logan Hensler (RHD, 18)

Logan Hensler was one of the top defensemen selected in the 2025 NHL Draft. Hensler provides a safer option in their own zone compared to Yakemchuk. Hensler is a 6-foot-3, mobile blueliner who has good reach and can rough guys up and is even better in his own zone. There’s a good chance he becomes a second-pairing defenseman who plays a safe defensive game.

While the Senators' prospect pool may not be overflowing with high-profile talent, these three players represent a promising future for the organization. Yakemchuk's potential on the blue line, Meriläinen's talent in net, and Hensler's defensive ability could all contribute to the Senators' success in the coming years. The team's development program in Belleville will also play a key role in nurturing these and other prospects as they strive to make an impact in Ottawa.