The Ottawa Senators may face an extended period without their team captain as the NHL season kicks off. Brady Tkachuk sustained a right hand injury after being cross-checked by Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators during the first period on Monday, leading to an awkward collision with the boards. Despite continuing to play, Tkachuk appeared uncomfortable and was sidelined for the final nine minutes of the game, which ended in a 4-1 loss for the Sens.
Head coach Travis Green confirmed on Wednesday that the 26-year-old Tkachuk will be out for over four weeks due to the injury, and there is a possibility of surgery. Tkachuk, who topped the Senators’ scoring chart last season with 29 goals, played a key role in guiding the team to their first playoff appearance since 2017.
Following a win against Tampa Bay to start the season, the Senators suffered a defeat against the Florida Panthers before heading back home. Their upcoming match is scheduled for Wednesday night against the Buffalo Sabres. Meanwhile, winger Drake Batherson announced his return from his own injury and is set to face the Sabres. Batherson, who hails from Nova Scotia, was the second-highest goal scorer and point contributor for the Senators in the 2024-25 season.