The Ottawa Senators' search for a complete victory continues after a narrow 4-3 overtime defeat against the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena. While the team showed fight, defensive lapses, particularly on the penalty kill, proved costly once again.
Special Teams Struggle Proves Costly
The Senators' penalty kill unit had a night to forget, surrendering two power-play goals to the Red Wings. This continues a troubling season-long trend, as the team has now allowed 41 goals while shorthanded. That statistic places them near the bottom of the NHL, with only the Vancouver Canucks faring worse in this critical department.
Player Report Card: Reimer Stands Tall
Despite the loss, several Senators players delivered notable performances. Here is a breakdown of the key contributors from the contest in Detroit.
Between the Pipes
James Reimer: A. The veteran netminder was unequivocally Ottawa's best player on the ice. Facing a barrage of shots, Reimer turned aside 30 of 34 attempts, giving his team every opportunity to secure two points. His efforts were ultimately wasted in the extra frame, but his performance solidifies his case to start the next game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Forward Line Contributions
Ridly Greig: B+. Greig embraced his role as an agitator, getting under the skin of Detroit's players, including goalie John Gibson. His physical play drew penalties, though he also took a costly interference call against Lucas Raymond.
Dylan Cozens: B+. The hard-working forward continued his power-play prowess, netting his ninth goal with the man advantage this season. He has now scored in three consecutive games, though increasing his even-strength production remains a focus.
Drake Batherson: B. Batherson remained hot, scoring his third goal in five games and adding an assist. His offensive push is a key catalyst for the Senators when he's on his game.
Brady Tkachuk: B. The captain was his usual physical self, engaging with Detroit's Elmer Soderblom and playing a gritty game. He took a minor penalty in the third period, but the Sens managed to kill it off.
Shane Pinto: B. Pinto was instrumental on the power play, going to the net to score the tying goal in the third period. However, he missed a golden opportunity late in regulation that could have won the game.
Claude Giroux: B-. The veteran made a smart play to set up Pinto's goal and was strong in the faceoff circle, winning 64 percent (9-of-14) of his draws. He was a steadying presence throughout.
Tim Stutzle: C+. It was a quiet night by the star's high standards. Stutzle recorded only two shots on goal in over 18 minutes of ice time and was on the ice for James van Riemsdyk's power-play marker.
Looking Ahead
The Senators demonstrated they can compete, but "close" is no longer sufficient for a team aiming to climb the standings. Fixing the league-worst penalty kill is the most urgent item on the agenda. The team will look to rebound and translate a strong individual effort from Reimer into a full-team victory when they host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday.
