Brady Tkachuk Scores First Goal of the Season
In a highly anticipated moment for the Ottawa Senators, captain Brady Tkachuk scored his first goal of the 2025-26 NHL season, delivering a decisive blow in the team’s 5-2 victory over the rival Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on Tuesday night. The goal came in the third period, solidifying the win that halted a two-game losing streak for the Senators, who have struggled recently following Tkachuk’s recovery from thumb surgery that sidelined him for much of the season.
Key Contributions from Teammates
Having played only six games this year, Tkachuk’s performance was crucial, coupled with notable contributions from teammates Fabian Zetterlund and Tyler Kleven, who also registered two points each in the match. Following a disappointing pair of games against the St. Louis Blues and Dallas Stars, the Senators showcased a significantly improved effort, earning their 13th win of the season and jumping above the Canadiens in the competitive Atlantic Division standings.
Emotional Moments and Game Highlights
Zetterlund, who scored the Senators’ quick equalizer right after Montreal struck first with a power play goal from Juraj Slafkovský just four minutes into the game, played with deep emotional significance. He dedicated his goal to his late grandmother, who had passed away shortly before the game.
“To get that one was nice; it’s for my grandma,”
he expressed to reporters.
The Senators then took command of the game, with defensemen Artem Zub and Jake Sanderson both finding the net. Zub’s goal came after he was set up by Tkachuk, while Sanderson scored on a slick backhand maneuver just past the six-minute mark of the second period. Shortly thereafter, Kleven assisted on Drake Batherson‘s goal that extended the Senators’ lead to 4-1, showcasing an impressive performance that underscored his growing influence on the game.
Montreal’s Attempt to Come Back
Montreal attempted to claw back into the match when Nick Suzuki scored another power play goal, closing the gap to 4-2. However, Tkachuk’s response in the third period, with a powerful shot past goalie Sam Montembeault, effectively sealed the outcome. Despite Ottawa’s special teams struggling—losing two of three power play opportunities and allowing two goals while short-handed—the Senators’ strong five-on-five play was evident.
Goaltending and Coaching Praise
Linus Ullmark, the Senators’ goaltender, made 19 stops, demonstrating solid play throughout the match. Head coach Travis Green praised the team’s performance, emphasizing their effective puck pressure and overall gameplay. Meanwhile, David Perron celebrated a milestone with his 1,200th NHL game, contributing an assist to the victory. Though Senators tough guy Kurtis MacDermid was in the lineup, the game remained devoid of rough tactics, as Montreal’s enforcer Arber Xhekaj did not engage in physical play.
Looking Ahead
Following this convincing win, the Senators look forward to returning home for a three-game homestand, beginning with a match against the New York Rangers on Thursday night at the Canadian Tire Centre.
