The Ottawa Senators are deliberately turning to their seasoned players to establish the team's competitive mindset and generate crucial on-ice energy. This strategic emphasis on veteran influence is becoming a defining characteristic of their approach in the 2026 NHL season.
Veterans as Catalysts for Team Performance
In a league where momentum and intensity can decide games, the Senators' coaching staff is actively leveraging the wisdom and composure of their older roster members. Players like Claude Giroux are not just counted on for points but are instrumental in setting the daily standard for preparation and effort. This philosophy was evident during recent action, including a game on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, against the Vancouver Canucks at Ottawa's home arena.
On-Ice Example of Veteran Presence
The dynamic was visible in the third period of that contest, where Giroux, wearing number 28, and defenseman Jordan Spence, number 10, were involved in a forceful collision with Canucks centre Max Sasson. Such plays, driven by effort and engagement, exemplify the tone the team aims to set. The Senators believe that when their most experienced competitors lead with physical and mental tenacity, it raises the performance level of the entire lineup, especially during critical moments in a long season.
Building a Foundation for Future Success
This reliance on veteran savvy is more than a short-term tactic. Management views it as a foundational element for building a resilient and consistent team culture. By having players like Giroux demonstrate professional habits and in-game intelligence, younger talents on the Senators' roster receive an invaluable on-the-job education. The goal is to create a self-sustaining environment where high energy and smart play become the norm, not the exception, as the team navigates the challenges of the NHL schedule.
The strategy underscores a clear recognition within the organization: while skill is paramount, the intangible elements of leadership and experience provided by wily veterans are indispensable assets for igniting a team's full potential.
