The Ottawa Senators might have to play without their team captain for at least a month as the new NHL season kicks off. Brady Tkachuk was checked by Nashville Predators defenseman Roman Josi early in Monday’s first period, causing him to collide awkwardly with the boards. Tkachuk visibly favored his right forearm upon getting up and, despite continuing to play, sat out the final nine minutes of the third period. Consequently, the Senators suffered a 4-1 defeat.
According to head coach Travis Green, the 26-year-old Tkachuk is expected to be sidelined for over four weeks due to a right hand injury. Green mentioned that the team is awaiting further updates, including the possibility of Tkachuk requiring surgery. Tkachuk, who led the Senators in scoring last season with 29 goals, was instrumental in guiding the team to its first playoff appearance since 2017.
The Senators began the regular season with a victory over Tampa Bay but then suffered a loss to the Florida Panthers before returning home. Their upcoming game is scheduled for Wednesday night in Buffalo. Drake Batherson, a fellow winger, revealed to reporters on Tuesday that he would be back from his own injury to face the Sabres. Batherson, hailing from Nova Scotia, ranked second in both goals and points for the Senators in the 2024-25 season.
