The Ottawa Senators find themselves in a familiar, yet unenviable, position as the 2025-26 season progresses: perpetually on the cusp of contention, but seemingly always a trade away from true regret. This narrative isn't new for the franchise, and it speaks to a recurring theme of high expectations, bold moves, and the often-unpredictable consequences that follow. As of January 24, 2026, the Senators hold a record of 23-20-7.
One of the primary issues facing the Senators is their defensive play, which has been a consistent area of concern. The team's management has been actively exploring options to bolster the blue line, with Calgary Flames' Rasmus Andersson reportedly a prime target. However, acquiring Andersson may prove difficult, especially since Ottawa lacks a first-round pick in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft due to a previous forfeiture. This lack of a key asset could hinder their ability to compete with other interested teams like the Boston Bruins, who have reportedly offered a defenseman and a first-round pick for Andersson.
The Senators' struggles aren't solely confined to the defensive end. Despite having a core of talented centers like Tim Stutzle, Dylan Cozens, and Shane Pinto, the team has faced challenges in finding consistent scoring on the wings. While players like Drake Batherson and Brady Tkachuk provide offensive firepower, the Senators have experimented with various combinations of players like Michael Amadio, Ridly Greig, and David Perron to fill the remaining top-six winger spots. This lack of consistency highlights the need for a reliable offensive presence to complement the team's established stars.
Goaltending has also been an area of concern for the Senators. Linus Ullmark, the team's starting goaltender, recently took a leave of absence for mental health reasons, leaving a void in the net. While Ullmark is expected to return soon, the team's goaltending struggles in his absence, with backup Leevi Merilainen being sent back to the minors, underscore the importance of stability and depth in this crucial position.
The Senators' current situation highlights the delicate balance between making impactful trades and maintaining a sustainable, long-term vision. While the desire to improve the team's performance is understandable, the organization must avoid the temptation of making short-sighted moves that could jeopardize their future prospects. The Evgenii Dadonov debacle, which resulted in the loss of a first-round pick, serves as a cautionary tale of the potential consequences of hasty decision-making.
Looking ahead, the Senators need to carefully evaluate their options and prioritize moves that align with their long-term goals. This may involve exploring alternative trade targets, developing young players within the organization, and fostering a strong team culture that promotes consistency and accountability. While the allure of a quick fix through a blockbuster trade is tempting, the Senators must resist the urge to mortgage their future for short-term gains.
Ultimately, the Senators' success will depend on their ability to learn from past mistakes and adopt a more patient and strategic approach to team building. By focusing on sustainable growth and avoiding the pitfalls of impulsive trades, the Senators can break free from the cycle of regret and build a truly competitive team that can contend for championships for years to come. The return of Ullmark could be as early as January 26. Assistant coach Mike Yeo has recently taken over the penalty kill from Nolan Baumgartner.
