The Ottawa Senators have been dealt a significant blow as defenseman Thomas Chabot has returned to the injury list after playing just one game following his recovery.
Setback After Short-Lived Return
Thomas Chabot's comeback lasted merely one game before he reaggravated the same upper-body muscle injury that previously sidelined him for 10 days. The talented blueliner had just returned to action on Saturday against the San Jose Sharks when he suffered the setback during the third period of Ottawa's 3-2 victory.
Chabot reinjured himself while taking a shot late in the game, immediately heading to the bench where he engaged in an extended discussion with athletic therapist Dom Nicoletta. The concerning aspect for team medical staff was that the injury occurred without any physical contact, with Chabot delivering what appeared to be a weak shot before immediately recognizing something was wrong.
Team Management and Recovery Timeline
Senators coach Travis Green addressed the situation following Monday's morning skate in Los Angeles, confirming that Chabot will not suit up against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. Green characterized the defenseman's status as day-to-day but emphasized that the team will take every necessary precaution given the nature of the injury.
This marks the second occurrence of this particular injury for Chabot, who originally suffered the ailment on November 11 during the first period against the Dallas Stars. The initial injury required medical evaluation to ensure surgery wasn't necessary, and it's expected Chabot will undergo similar assessments this time around. The original recovery timeline was projected at least two weeks.
Impact on Senators' Defensive Corps
Chabot's latest absence creates immediate challenges for the Senators' defensive lineup during their lengthy seven-game road trip. Before his reinjury, Chabot logged substantial ice time of 21 minutes and 45 seconds against San Jose while paired with his former defensive partner Nick Jensen.
The Senators have already made roster adjustments in response to the situation, sending defenseman Lassi Thomson back to their American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville. Thomson had been recalled specifically to provide coverage during Chabot's initial absence.
Meanwhile, the team continues monitoring Nikolas Matinpalo's status after he left Wednesday's 3-2 victory over Anaheim following a hard hit in the third period. Matinpalo participated in Friday's skate in San Jose but was scratched from the Sharks game.
Chabot had expressed his frustration about missing playing time after his return against San Jose, stating, "There is nothing worse than missing time. It felt great to be back out there with my teammates." His competitive nature was evident in his early return, as he didn't even complete a full practice with teammates before rejoining the lineup.
