Early season forecasts for the Ottawa Senators place them in the top 10 NHL teams. While that may be a bit high, there is plenty to do in the Canadian capital as the 2025-2026 season gets underway. The addition of Jordan Spence to the blue line was a smart, understated move, and much of Ottawa’s core is entering its prime. Depth remains a question, but the pieces are in place for another playoff push, and Thursday’s season opener provided plenty of reason for optimism.
Related: Senators Complete Comeback, Eliminate Lightning in Opener
The Senators took on the Tampa Bay Lightning and had the upper hand in a tight back and forth game. Ottawa’s youngsters and veterans matched up well, twice rallying from two goals behind before Shane Pinto’s late goals pushed them to a 5-4 victory. It was an example of the fact that these Senators’ team can compete with the NHL’s best when push comes to shove.
Point one: Shane Pinto leads the way for the Senators
Pinto had a three-point performance that will cheer up Senators fans watching the opener. His second goal, a rebound with 1:47 to go, was the game winner and he added an assist earlier in the game. Pinto’s first goal tied the game at 3-3 on a breakaway, and he consistently put himself in the right spots to keep the attack going.
After tallying 21 goals and a career-high 37 points last season, Pinto is quietly becoming one of Ottawa’s most reliable middle-six forwards. His timing, poise in front of the net and ability to capitalize on second chances were all on display Thursday, and if he keeps up this pace, the Senators could have a real difference-maker on their hands.
Point two: Senators Jake Sanderson and Artem Zub Shine
The Sens’ defense also stepped up significantly. Jake Sanderson posted two assists, three shots on goal and three blocked shots while finishing plus-3. He set up Dylan Cozens’ early power-play goal and later fed Pinto for the go-ahead goal, showing both vision and composure in key moments. Still just 23, Sanderson looks set to improve his game even further this season.
Related: Ottawa Senators’ five best-case scenarios for 2025-2026
Artem Zub, usually seen as a stay-at-home star, surprised a few people with a goal and two assists – a bit of a throwback to Erik Karlsson’s big season openers. His stretch pass to Pinto, which tied the game at 3-3, was an example of perfect timing and cleverness, while still holding the defensive end. Between Zub and Sanderson, the Sens’ blue line showed it can handle the heat when Tampa Bay pushed. If this type of play continues, Ottawa should show real depth and versatility.
Point three: Dylan Cozens, Brady Tkachuk and Claude Giroux are making their mark
Cozens got the Senators on the board first with a power play goal, but didn’t sit back after that. He threw his weight around, made some big hits and worked hard on the second line. He is the kind of player who keeps the team stable and strong, and you can see that he is ready to return to the form that saw him with 68 points in 2022/2023.
Brady Tkachuk made a statement by registering three assists and setting a new team record – becoming the first Ottawa forward to score three points in multiple season openers. His energy, puck protection and knack for finding teammates at the right time show fans why he remains one of the NHL’s best forwards.
And then there is veteran Claude Giroux. He potted an empty-netter and finished with plus-2. He may not put up the big numbers he once did, but his experience, fortitude and leadership count. He has a calming influence on the team’s middle six. What makes him so special is that he is the kind of player that young teammates can lean on.
What’s next for the Senators?
The Senators started the season with a win and a message: They can compete with anyone when the core performs at its best. Linus Ullmark, who made 21 saves against the Lightning, will need to stay sharp, and managing the ice time between him and Leevi Merilainen will be crucial as the season progresses.
With a mix of youthful energy, seasoned leadership and renewed depth on defense, Ottawa has reason for optimism. Spence adds a smart, reliable option at the back, the top six is productive and the middle six is already showing signs of chemistry. If the team can keep this momentum going and keep injuries at bay, the Senators can return to the playoffs and make a statement once they get there.
#Senators #News #Rumors #Pinto #Sanderson #Zub #Giroux #Hockey #Writers #Ottawa #Senators #Latest #News #Analysis