The Ottawa Senators secured a crucial 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on April 12, 2026, clinching a playoff spot in the process. This win marks the Senators’ fifth consecutive game without a loss, bringing their record to 43-27-11.
Dawson Mercer shone for the Devils, contributing a goal and an assist, while Nico Daws made 27 saves in his second start of the season. Despite the loss, the Devils’ record stands at 42-36-3, and they have been eliminated from playoff contention.
Michael Amadio, Shane Pinto, and Fabian Zetterlund each scored for the Senators, showcasing their depth even with key players like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stutzle sidelined due to illness. Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot were also out, but Chabot made a remarkable return from a broken arm just 17 days after surgery.
In the first period, Nico Hischier gave the Devils a brief lead, but the Senators quickly responded. Shane Pinto commented on the game, saying, “We had a good second (period) and I thought we could have won. … (Reimer) made some big saves for us.”
James Reimer, in goal for the Senators, made 26 saves, further solidifying the team’s defensive efforts. Claude Giroux reflected on the season, stating, “We have been through a lot this season,” highlighting the challenges the team faced on their path to the playoffs.
As the Senators prepare for the playoffs, they remain just one point behind the Boston Bruins, who are also vying for a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Observers are eager to see how the Senators will perform in the upcoming playoff series, especially with their recent momentum.
Overall, this match not only secured the Senators’ playoff position but also underscored the resilience of the team despite injuries and setbacks. The Devils, while unable to qualify for the playoffs, showed flashes of potential that could bode well for future seasons.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full recovery timeline for players like Chabot, but his swift return has certainly boosted the Senators’ confidence heading into the postseason.
