Is There a Chance for the Senators to Get Into the Playoffs?
The Ottawa Senators have become one of the season’s more compelling stories. A few weeks ago, they looked like they were trying to climb out of a deep hole. But instead of folding, they kept chipping away — collecting points, grinding in the defensive end, and making themselves a real conversation in the playoff chase.
They’re not favourites, and the road’s nasty. Still, they’ve shown enough to keep hope alive. Here are three reasons why they can still get in.
Three Reasons the Senators Have a Chance at the Postseason.
First, reinforcements are on their way. Getting Jake Sanderson back changes more than one pairing; it alters how the whole team manages minutes and matchups. When the blue line steadies, the forwards can play with more confidence, and the bench breathes easier. That domino effect is real; a steady defenseman returning is worth more than a stat line on paper.
Second, Linus Ullmark is winning games. The Senators' goaltending has found a rhythm at the right time. A goalie who can settle the game turns many contests from coin flips into winnable affairs. When the crease gives reliable outings, defenders take smarter risks, and one-goal games stop feeling unforgiving. Ottawa hasn’t been perfect in net, but the recent steadiness matters a lot in March.
Third, structure wins playoff chases. The Senators aren’t trying to outscore everyone. Instead, they defend the slot, clog the neutral zone, and force opponents to earn every inch. That brand of hockey travels well. It’s not glamorous, but it’s hugely effective in tight games.
If the Senators can limit high-danger chances, suddenly a 2–1 or 3–2 outcome starts to look favourable night after night.
The Senators Seem to Have a Mental Edge.
Team belief is the currency of a late-season run. Ottawa has shown the ability to bounce back from losses and follow up big wins without collapsing. That pushback shortens shifts, speeds up decision-making, and keeps mistakes from snowballing. It gives the Senators the small margins they need in a playoff race. When a locker room actually buys into a system, it shows up in how they defend and how they close out games.
The Senators Are Facing a Reality Check.
There are no illusions: the schedule ahead is brutal, and the injury list is huge. The team needs the hockey gods to smile on them with a few breaks and good timing. But if goaltending stays steady, the defensive structure holds, and key players return soon, Ottawa has more than a path.
Late‑March races are often won by teams willing to grind through ugly nights and keep finding points; right now, the Senators still look like one of those teams.