Senators Captain on the Verge of Comeback
Help appears to be arriving for the Ottawa Senators as their captain, Brady Tkachuk, is closing in on a return to the lineup after a significant absence due to a hand injury. Tkachuk did not participate in the team's 45-minute skate at the Canadian Tire Centre on Monday but is scheduled to travel with his teammates as they embark on a crucial seven-game road trip.
Recovery Progress and Specialist Consultation
The belief is that Tkachuk was in New York on Monday, meeting with renowned hand specialist Dr. Robert Hotchkiss. The purpose of the visit was to receive clearance to intensify his training activities after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ligament in his thumb. The initial timeline for recovery was set at six to seven weeks post-surgery.
Having already missed 16 games, Tkachuk has taken significant steps in his rehabilitation. He resumed skating with his teammates on Friday and has been progressing to handling the puck, a critical test for his injured hand.
Potential Return Dates on the Western Swing
While there is no firm timeline, the expectation is that Tkachuk will return to action sometime during the Senators' extensive 15-day road trip. The journey begins Thursday against the Anaheim Ducks in California.
If his recovery continues smoothly, the earliest possible return could be next Wednesday against the Vegas Golden Knights. Another symbolic possibility is a return in his hometown when the Senators face the St. Louis Blues on November 28. Fans might receive a more concrete update on his status following the release of the next episode of his "Wingmen" podcast with his brother Matthew, scheduled for Wednesday.
Defensive Reinforcements Also on the Horizon
Tkachuk isn't the only key player potentially returning during this trip. Defenceman Thomas Chabot, who suffered an upper-body muscle injury a week ago, was on the ice Monday. Although he has not been cleared for contact, he is expected to be on the flight with the team.
In a related roster move, the Senators addressed their defensive depth by acquiring Dennis Gilbert from the Philadelphia Flyers on Monday in exchange for blueliner Max Guenette. Gilbert will join the team for the road trip, which also includes stops in San Jose, Los Angeles, Dallas, and concludes in Montreal on December 2.
