The future is bright for the Ottawa Senators.
After reaching the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2017 this past spring, the Senators have an idea of what it takes to thrive in hockey’s most pressure-filled stage and can set their sights on more in 2025-26.
The catalyst behind Ottawa’s rebuild — captain Brady Tkachuk — is the on-ice warrior and off-ice leader who gives this franchise its best chance at finally hoisting Lord Stanley. While a championship is still far away, the Senators are moving in the right direction, and Tkachuk’s commitment to the organization is a big reason for optimism.
Postmedia’s Bruce Garrioch had this to say about Tkachuk’s future in Ottawa:
“I think it was important for them to make the playoffs last year; I think some frustration would have grown in that camp; Tkachuk has always wanted to do it here.”
Tkachuk, 26 in September, has donned the “C” since 2021, and while he has not experienced the same team success as his brother, Florida Panthers forward Matthew, his fabric is covered with winning DNA.
Although Canadian teams have long struggled to retain and attract top Americans, Tkachuk still has three years left on his contract at over $8.2 million annually. There is no telling what his 2029 unrestricted free agency will hold, so there is some reason for urgency for the Senators.
Fortunately for Ottawa, its core of Tim Stützle, recently-acquired Dylan Cozens, Jake Sanderson, Thomas Chabot, Linus Ullmark, and Tkachuk, gives it a real shot at not only reaching the postseason again but making some noise.
The next several seasons should determine Tkachuk’s faith in the team.
