The Ottawa Senators’ Milestones (April – June 2025)
The Ottawa Senators made headlines in 2025 as they marked significant milestones during the months of April through June. This period is particularly noteworthy as it witnessed the franchise securing a playoff spot for the first time since 2017, a long-awaited achievement that ended an eight-year wait for postseason action.
April: A Long-Awaited Return to the Playoffs
The Senators finished the 2024-25 NHL season with a solid record of 45 wins, 37 losses, earning 97 points. This performance allowed them to clinch the first wild card spot, narrowly falling short of the Florida Panthers, who went on to claim the Stanley Cup. In the opening round of the playoffs, they faced off against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite initially trailing 3-0 in the series, the Senators showed potential in tight games, namely Games 2 and 3, both of which went to overtime. In a spirited comeback, Ottawa won Game 4 dramatically, with Brady Tkachuk rallying the fans by proclaiming,
“We’re coming back here”
after an OT victory. They indeed returned, taking Game 5 with a 4-0 shutout in Toronto. However, the team faced defeat in Game 6, where despite David Perron’s late equalizer, they were ultimately eliminated by Max Pacioretty’s goal, ending their playoff run in six games. The competitiveness of the series lent hope that this experience would bolster the Senators moving into next season.
Awards and Recognition
While the playoffs proceeded without their participation, the Senators received nominations for prestigious individual awards. David Perron was honored as Ottawa’s nominee for the Masterton Trophy, recognizing his resilience and dedication following personal challenges and injuries. Furthermore, Brady Tkachuk was nominated for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, reflecting his leadership both on and off the ice, similar to the qualities of the trophy’s namesake, a former Senators captain.
A Tribute to Ray Shero
April also bore a somber moment for the hockey community with the passing of Ray Shero, a respected NHL executive. Shero, who was integral to the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2009 Stanley Cup win, previously served as an assistant GM for the Senators and was well-regarded throughout his career.
May: Changes in the Roster
As the Senators concluded their playoff journey, the team faced significant changes during exit meetings. Some players, including free agents Adam Gaudette and Anton Forsberg, opted to join new teams, leaving the Senators to navigate a reshuffling of their roster. To begin the offseason, GM Steve Staios secured Nikolas Matinpalo with a two-year contract. Several Senators representatives also participated in the World Hockey Championship, with Tim Stützle and Shane Pinto gaining international experience. Pinto notably helped Team USA secure a gold medal.
Recognition for Jacques Martin
Jacques Martin, the franchise’s winningest head coach, was honored with induction into the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame, marking a celebration of his legacy within the team.
Management Adjustments
In an unexpected pivot, the Senators parted ways with Ryan Bowness, their associate GM, amid organizational restructuring, appointing Matt Turek as his successor while naming Sam Gagner as the new director of player development.
June: The NHL Draft
At the 2025 NHL Draft, the Senators had six selections and executed a trade to position themselves better. They initially had the 21st overall pick but traded that to the Nashville Predators in exchange for the 23rd and 67th picks. With the 23rd choice, they drafted defenceman Logan Hensler and enlisted comedian Tom Green to announce the selection. They later acquired defenceman Jordan Spence, and their later rounds brought a variety of talents, including goaltender Lucas Beckman and several forwards.
Contract Extensions and Olympic Aspirations
The Senators also made strides in securing their roster by re-signing restricted free agent Tyler Kleven and extending Claude Giroux’s contract for an additional year. As the month wound down, attention turned to the upcoming Olympics as national teams announced preliminary rosters, featuring Senators’ players Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle, among others.
As the summer months approach, the Senators look to build on their postseason experience and prepare for a promising future.
