Ottawa Senators Face Risk of Another Step‑Back Season

Ottawa Senators entered the 2026‑27 off‑season with a looming question: can the club avoid another step back after losing captain Brady Tkachuk? The team sits 6th in the Eastern Conference with a 44‑27 record and a one‑game winning streak as of July 13, 2026, but roster upheaval and coaching changes cast a long shadow over the upcoming campaign.

How did the off‑season reshape the roster?

The headline move was the trade of Brady Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers, stripping Ottawa of its most aggressive forward and a locker‑room leader. In return, the Sens added William Eklund from San Jose and Andre Burakovsky from Chicago, both talented wingers but lacking Tkachuk’s grit and intangibles. Veteran center Claude Giroux signed a free‑agent deal to bring experience, yet the loss of Tkachuk’s edge is a palpable gap on the top line.

What coaching shake‑up could affect team chemistry?

The departure of Daniel Alfredsson from the Senators’ coaching staff to become an associate coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs shocked fans. Alfredsson, a franchise icon, chose the arch‑rival, a move many view as a betrayal. While his coaching acumen remains valuable, the emotional impact on the locker room may linger throughout the season.

Are the goaltending options reliable for 2026‑27?

Ottawa acquired Samuel Ersson from the Philadelphia Flyers via Toronto, hoping he can back up starter Linus Ullmark. Ersson’s recent numbers are worrying: a .890 save percentage in 51 games (2023‑24), .883 in 47 games (2024‑25), and .870 in 33 games this past season. Backup Leevi Merilainen showed flashes, posting a .925 save percentage and 1.99 GAA in 12 games during 2024‑25, but his .860 mark in limited action last year raises doubts about relying on him for a full load.

How does the Atlantic Division landscape influence Ottawa’s outlook?

The division is tightening. Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens are expected to stay strong, while the Maple Leafs and Panthers have added depth. Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins are pushing for playoff spots, leaving only Detroit as a likely non‑playoff team. In such a competitive field, the Senators must address the void left by Tkachuk and stabilize goaltending to stay afloat.

What are the financial and strategic options for GM Steve Staios?

Staios holds roughly $4.1 million in cap space. He could spend it on a proven net‑minder, but preserving flexibility might allow mid‑season moves if injuries arise. The decision will hinge on Ullmark’s performance early in the season; a subpar start could force a costly upgrade.

What does this mean for the Senators’ playoff chances?

If the team fails to replace Tkachuk’s physical presence and the goaltending duo underperforms, Ottawa risks slipping further down the standings. Even with a solid record, a weak second‑line and shaky net could turn a potential playoff berth into a battle for survival. Fans and analysts alike will watch the first month closely to gauge whether the Sens can rebound or slide into another disappointing year.