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 Nashville Predators’ Roman Josi and colliding awkwardly with the boards during Monday’s game. Despite expressing discomfort and sitting out part of the match, Tkachuk continued to play. Coach Travis Green confirmed on Wednesday that the 26-year-old will likely be sidelined for over four weeks, with the possibility of requiring surgery.
Having been the top scorer for the Senators last season with 29 goals, Tkachuk played a crucial role in guiding the team to their first playoff appearance since 2017. Following a win against Tampa Bay to start the season and a subsequent loss to the Florida Panthers, Ottawa is preparing for their upcoming game in Buffalo on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, winger Drake Batherson is set to make a comeback from his own injury to face the Sabres. Batherson, who hails from Nova Scotia, was the second-highest goal and point scorer for the Senators in the 2024-25 season.
