Lassi Thomson Makes Long-Awaited Return to Senators' Blueline
The Ottawa Senators are turning to a familiar face to bolster their defensive corps as they face a critical stretch of the season. Defenseman Lassi Thomson, a former first-round pick, will dress for Monday night's game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. This marks his first appearance in the National Hockey League in nearly four years, with his last game occurring on November 25, 2022, in a victory over the Anaheim Ducks.
Injury Woes Prompt Opportunity for Thomson
The Senators' defensive depth has been severely tested in recent weeks, creating an opening for Thomson's return. He was initially recalled from the American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville two weeks ago following an injury to top defenseman Jake Sanderson. The situation became more urgent after Dennis Gilbert suffered an undisclosed upper-body injury during Saturday night's 5-2 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The club is also without veteran defenseman Nick Jensen, who underwent knee surgery for a torn meniscus and is sidelined for the remainder of the season. These cumulative injuries have forced the Senators to dig deep into their organizational resources, with Thomson becoming the tenth different defenseman to suit up for the team this season.
Thomson's Journey Back to the NHL
Selected 19th overall by the Senators in the 2019 NHL draft, Thomson's professional career has been marked by uncertainty and perseverance. The 25-year-old has appeared in just 18 NHL games total, with his last stint coming over three years ago. After pushing for a roster spot in 2023, he was claimed by the Anaheim Ducks when Ottawa attempted to send him to the AHL, though he never played a game for Anaheim.
When the Ducks placed him on waivers in October 2023, the Senators immediately reclaimed him. Frustrated with his AHL assignment, Thomson spent the 2024-25 season with the Malmo RedHawks in the Swedish Elite League before returning to North America this season at the request of Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios.
"It's a pretty awesome opportunity," Thomson said about his return to NHL action. "Being around the boys for the last two weeks and seeing the group in the locker room after winning games, it's awesome to check in, especially in New York, because I haven't played here before. It's a cool moment for me."
Immediate Role and Future Outlook
Thomson is expected to skate in the third defensive pairing alongside Nikolas Matinpalo against the Rangers. The Senators have opted not to recall any additional players from Belleville for their two-game road trip, indicating confidence in Thomson's ability to contribute immediately. He is also likely to face the Detroit Red Wings in the second game of the back-to-back on Tuesday night.
During his time with Belleville this season, Thomson posted respectable numbers with 14 goals and 25 points, demonstrating offensive capability from the blueline. His return to North America was specifically motivated by Staios's search for right-side defensive help, and Thomson expressed enthusiasm about having "unfinished business" in the NHL.
"It's been over three years since I played in the NHL, so I'm just going to try to enjoy the moment and try to have fun," Thomson added. "It's been a good year in Belleville, and it's a good opportunity."
The Senators' decision to insert Thomson into the lineup comes at a pivotal moment as they compete for crucial points in the standings. His return represents both a testament to organizational depth and a personal milestone for a player determined to establish himself at hockey's highest level after years of uncertainty and international experience.
