As we approach 2025, Hockey News Ottawa reflects on some of the most significant Ottawa Senators stories from the past year. The standout development is the Senators’ long-awaited return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, their first appearance in eight years. Unfortunately, they once again faced disappointment in the Battle of Ontario.
The playoff comeback was undoubtedly the highlight, but other notable events also shaped the Senators’ year. Here’s a recap of key moments from January to April.
In January, the Senators secured Ridley Greig with a four-year contract extension valued at $3.25 million annually. The 22-year-old forward, part of the promising 2020 NHL Draft class alongside Tim Stuetzle and others, was recognized by GM Steve Staios as a vital component of the team’s future. Greig expressed enthusiasm about growing with the team and pursuing victories.
Due to injuries to veteran goalies Linus Ullmark and Anton Forsberg, 22-year-old Levi Melilainen was thrust into the starting goalie role, performing admirably with an 8-3-1 record, a 1.99 goals-against average, and a .925 save percentage.
The Senators also announced two preseason games in Quebec City against the New Jersey Devils and Montreal Canadiens, aiming to captivate undecided hockey fans there. However, the introduction of a mascot wearing a mixed Senators-Nordic jersey stirred backlash among some fans eager for NHL’s return to Quebec City.
Injuries struck again when Nick Cousins sustained a serious knee injury against Toronto, sidelining him for 30 games before a playoff return. Additionally, the NHL named some Senators legends and current players to its Quarterly First and Second Teams, celebrating the franchise’s rich history.
February saw Melilainen sent down to the minors once Ullmark and Forsberg recovered, as the Senators managed goalie depth for the season. They also commemorated a fun fan moment — the 10th anniversary of Andrew Hammond’s remarkable “Hamburglar” playoff run in 2015. Meanwhile, Ryan Hartman was suspended after a dangerous hit on Tim Stutzle, a reminder of the sport’s intensity and necessary regulations.
The NHL’s Four Nations Faceoff saw several Senators represent their countries, including Tkachuk and Sanderson for the U.S., and Ullmark for Sweden, highlighting the team’s international talent.
March was marked by significant trades: Josh Norris was sent to Buffalo along with Jacob Bernard-Docker, while Fabian Zetterlund was acquired from San Jose along with forward Tristen Robbins. These moves were strategic as the Senators aimed to solidify their roster.
Coach Travis Green hit a milestone, coaching his 400th NHL game, while the Senators staged a dramatic late-season surge with a 7-0-1 run, helping them climb from wildcard contention to playoff qualification.
This summary captures the excitement and challenges of the Senators’ first quarter of 2025, setting the stage for an even stronger finish from April to June — a period that promises to be memorable for the team and its fans.
Fan Take: The Senators’ return to the playoffs after an eight-year drought is a thrilling revival for their fanbase and signifies hope for a bright future. For hockey enthusiasts, this resurgence underscores the unpredictable and inspiring nature of the sport, where perseverance and smart management can reignite a team’s competitive spirit.
