Story perspectives

Senators Build Depth for Playoff Push After Seven-Year Hiatus

9/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Ottawa Senators aim for playoff consistency after returning to the postseason for the first time since 2016-17.
GM Steve Staios prioritizes depth and core stability, re-signing Fabian Zetterlund and Claude Giroux, and acquiring Jordan Spence.
The offense needs improvement, with only Tim Stutzle surpassing 75 points last season.
Goaltender Linus Ullmark will lead, backed by Leevi Merilainen, as the team builds on last season's success.
Predictions indicate the Senators could secure a wild-card spot or a top-three finish in the Atlantic Division.

History

Historical Context

The Ottawa Senators reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2017, their first appearance since 2007, led by Erik Karlsson's 71 points that season. This marked a competitive peak for the franchise, which had faced declining attendance, averaging just 14,553 fans in 2018-19. Today, the Senators aim for playoff consistency by re-signing key players like Claude Giroux to revitalize fan engagement and financial support.

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Story summary

The Ottawa Senators aim for playoff consistency after returning to the postseason for the first time since 2016-17.
GM Steve Staios prioritizes depth and core stability, re-signing Fabian Zetterlund and Claude Giroux, and acquiring Jordan Spence.
The offense needs improvement, with only Tim Stutzle surpassing 75 points last season.
Goaltender Linus Ullmark will lead, backed by Leevi Merilainen, as the team builds on last season's success.
Predictions indicate the Senators could secure a wild-card spot or a top-three finish in the Atlantic Division.

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