Jake Sanderson Skates with Senators, But Return Delayed Against Panthers
Injured Ottawa Senators defenceman Jake Sanderson took a significant step in his recovery by skating with the team on Monday, though he will not be available for the upcoming game against the Florida Panthers. Sanderson participated in practice wearing a non-contact jersey, marking his first on-ice session since suffering a shoulder injury on March 7.
Playoff Push Continues Without Key Defender
The Senators are entering a critical phase of the season with nine games remaining, as they vie for a playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Currently, Ottawa is tied with the Philadelphia Flyers and Detroit Red Wings, sitting two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final wildcard spot. The team holds tiebreakers over the Blue Jackets, Flyers, and Red Wings, but must first secure a playoff berth.
Sanderson's absence is a blow to the Senators, as he averages 25 minutes per game and is a top defensive asset. There is no specific timetable for his return, but his ability to skate with the team is viewed as a positive development. Before rejoining the lineup, Sanderson must be cleared for contact, which could delay his comeback until at least Saturday's matinee against the Minnesota Wild at the Canadian Tire Centre.
Roster Adjustments and Injury Updates
Recent roster moves have fueled speculation about Sanderson's potential return. On Sunday, the Senators sent rookie Jorian Donovan back to their American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville, leading to excitement among fans that Sanderson might face the Panthers. However, this move was necessary because Donovan was an emergency recall, not an indication of Sanderson's readiness.
Donovan was called up alongside Carter Yakemchuk last Tuesday after the Senators lost Thomas Chabot and Lassi Thomson in a game against the New York Rangers. Thomson has since returned to action, playing against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday, but Chabot remains out, compounding the team's defensive challenges.
The Senators will not skate on Wednesday, potentially pushing Sanderson's return to the weekend. As the team navigates this final stretch, his recovery progress will be closely monitored, with hopes that he can contribute to their playoff aspirations soon.
