Hockey News – Ottawa continues to reflect on the most significant Ottawa Senators stories from the past year, with this being the final segment covering October to December 2025.
October
Injury Troubles for Tkachuk
The Senators’ captain, Brady Tkachuk, faced a tough 2025 season with multiple injuries. After missing 10 games in the spring due to a lower-body injury sustained while playing for Team USA, he managed only three games in the 2025-26 season before a thumb injury sidelined him for 20 more. Despite his absence, the Senators posted an 11-5-4 record.
Jakemchuk Begins Pro Career
Defenseman Carter Jakemchuk, Ottawa’s 2024 first-round pick, didn’t make the NHL roster and started his pro career in the AHL with Belleville. Although his preseason point production lagged behind some peers who’ve already played in the NHL, the Senators are taking a patient approach as he develops his skills.
Staios Adds Muscle
Following a tough preseason loss to Montreal, where the Canadiens dominated physically and on the scoreboard, GM Steve Staios traded Zach McEwen to New Jersey for Curtis McDiarmid, a strong, physical player, to beef up Ottawa’s lineup.
Sebrango Lost on Waivers
With Tyler Kleben injured to start the season, Donovan Sebrango saw early NHL action. Once Kleben recovered, the Senators tried to send Sebrango to Belleville, only to lose him on waivers to the Florida Panthers, where he has played 10 games for the defending Stanley Cup champions.
November
Pinto Signs Long-Term Deal
Center Shane Pinto inked a four-year, $30 million contract extension. Pinto started strong with seven goals in six games but slowed down slightly, scoring five more over the next 22 games.
Passing of Mel Bridgeman
Mel Bridgeman, the first GM in Senators history and a former Philadelphia Flyers player, passed away at 70. Bridgeman’s tenure as Ottawa’s GM lasted just one season, but he remains a notable figure in hockey history.
Tkachuk Brothers Launch Podcast
While rehabbing from a thumb injury, Brady and Matthew Tkachuk began hosting a weekly podcast called “Wingmen,” where they share hockey stories and discuss current NHL news.
Kaliyev’s Gambling Allegations Cleared
Artur Kaliyev faced allegations from his ex-girlfriend about borrowing money to fund a gambling problem. The NHL and NHLPA investigated but found no evidence of rule violations or illegal conduct.
Defense Trade Surprises
The Senators couldn’t re-sign longtime defenseman Max Guenette and traded him to Philadelphia for Dennis Gilbert, a player Ottawa had traded away earlier in the year.
December
Ullmark Steps Away
Goalie Linus Ullmark, after continued struggles, took a leave of absence for personal reasons. Young goalie Levi Melilainen was named interim starter.
Brassard Aims for Swiss Return
Former Senator Derick Brassard, now 38, plans to revive his career in Switzerland with Geneva Servette. Brassard previously had two stints with Ottawa and remains eager to play despite past injuries.
Belleville Coaching Changes
Amid an eight-game losing streak, Belleville fired head coach David Bell, appointing assistant Andrew Campbell as interim coach.
Norris Returns to Ottawa
Josh Norris, now with Buffalo, recovered from injuries to score 12 points in 12 games. His return to Ottawa was warmly received by fans.
Year-End Review
The Senators ended 2025 slightly below their previous year’s performance, finishing with an 18-15-5 record compared to 18-15-2 the prior year. They look forward to hosting the Washington Capitals to kick off what they hope will be a stronger 2026.
Written by Steve Warne
Hockey News – Ottawa
Fan Take:
This recap highlights the challenges and resilience of the Ottawa Senators, reflecting the ups and downs typical in rebuilding phases. For hockey fans, it underscores how injuries, player development, and management decisions shape a team’s trajectory—and why staying patient and hopeful is vital for long-term success in the NHL.
