Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk is currently being evaluated for an upper-body injury and may require surgery, potentially sidelining him for an extended period. The injury occurred during Monday's game against the Nashville Predators, in which Tkachuk sustained a cross-check from defenseman Roman Josi in the first period. Despite the hit, Tkachuk remained in the game but ultimately missed the final nine minutes of the third period.

Initial reports suggested that Tkachuk would be out for at least four weeks. However, recent updates indicate the situation might be more serious. According to Postmedia, surgery appears likely, which could extend his absence to as long as eight weeks. Tkachuk was in New York City on Wednesday seeking a second opinion on his right arm injury to determine if surgery is necessary. An update is expected later today.

Senators coach Travis Green confirmed on Tuesday that Tkachuk would miss a "significant amount of time". While Green initially stated the absence would be "four weeks plus," he acknowledged uncertainty. He also mentioned that surgery had not been ruled out.

"It's unfortunate," Green said. "You don't want to lose a player, and you don't want to lose a player of his stature." Green added that the team would not dwell on the injury and would move forward, much like they would with any other injured player. He affirmed that Tkachuk would remain around the team and continue to serve as captain.

Tkachuk's absence is a significant blow to the Senators, who are aiming to make back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time since the early 2010s. In three games this season, the 26-year-old left wing has recorded three assists. Last season, Tkachuk was the team's top scorer with 29 goals. He also played in his first career postseason games in 2025, registering seven points in six games as Ottawa fell to the Maple Leafs in the first round.

In his relatively short NHL career, Tkachuk ranks among the Senators' all-time top ten in goals (fourth), assists (ninth), and points (sixth). He has also been selected to three All-Star Games. Tkachuk was also named to the United States' roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The Senators are currently 1-2 and seventh in the Atlantic Division. They played the Buffalo Sabres yesterday and will host the Seattle Kraken today.