The Ottawa Senators are facing a challenging start to the 2025-26 season, grappling with key player absences, defensive vulnerabilities, and roster adjustments. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:

Tkachuk's Absence a Significant Blow

The Senators will be without their captain, Brady Tkachuk, for at least a month due to a right wrist injury sustained in Monday's game against the Nashville Predators. Coach Travis Green confirmed the injury could potentially require surgery, extending his absence. Tkachuk's leadership, physicality, and offensive contributions will be sorely missed. He is considered the face of the franchise, and his absence creates a void that is difficult to fill. In the three games he played, Tkachuk had three assists and ten shots and hits. The team will need other players, such as Tim Stützle and Claude Giroux, to step up and fill the leadership void.

In the wake of Tkachuk's injury, the forward lines have been shuffled. A projected top line includes center Tim Stützle with wingers Michael Amadio and Fabian Zetterlund. Dylan Cozens is expected to center David Perron and Drake Batherson on the second line, while Ridly Greig, Shane Pinto, and Claude Giroux could form the third line. Drake Batherson returned to the lineup and provided some spark, but Tkachuk's unique energy and drive are irreplaceable.

Defensive Deficiencies Exposed

The Senators' defensive struggles have been glaring, with 18 goals conceded in the first four games. In the game against Buffalo, the defensive zone coverage was particularly poor, with missed assignments and ample space in front of the net. Buffalo capitalized with two power-play goals in under two minutes, and Ryan McLeod even scored shorthanded.

Coach Travis Green has begun experimenting with different defensive pairings to find a more effective combination. With Jacob Bernard-Docker still developing and Jake Sanderson carrying a heavy workload, the defensive group appears stretched. The team's defensive habits resemble those of last season, appearing reactive rather than assertive.

Sebrango Claimed off Waivers

Defenseman Donovan Sebrango was claimed off waivers by the Florida Panthers. The Senators placed Sebrango on waivers with the intention of assigning him to their AHL affiliate in Belleville, but the Panthers, needing defensive depth due to Dmitry Kulikov's injury, claimed him. Sebrango, an Ottawa native, played in two of the Senators' first three games this season. He was initially given a spot on the roster after Tyler Kleven suffered an ankle injury in the preseason. Losing Sebrango impacts the Senators' defensive depth, although they could reclaim him if the Panthers later place him back on waivers.

Other News

• Arthur Kaliyev has been recalled from Belleville. Kaliyev has played 202 NHL games, recording 38 goals and 37 assists.
• Ridly Greig was dealing with an illness recently, but is expected to play against Chicago on Tuesday.

The Senators face an uphill battle as they navigate early-season adversity. Overcoming Tkachuk's absence and solidifying the defense will be crucial for their success.