Senators Showcase Dominant Team Effort in Victory Over League-Leading Avalanche
The Ottawa Senators put forth their most complete and cohesive performance of the 2025-26 NHL season on January 28, 2026, securing a decisive 5-2 victory over the formidable Colorado Avalanche at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. This triumph was characterized by contributions from every line and a shutdown defensive effort that stifled one of the league's most potent offenses.
Key Performers Lead the Charge for Ottawa
Shane Pinto delivered a masterclass in defensive hockey, tasked with shadowing Colorado's superstar center, Nathan MacKinnon. Over 16 minutes and 51 seconds of shared ice time, Pinto's relentless pressure and active stick work held MacKinnon to zero points and a mere single shot on goal. This pivotal matchup was a cornerstone of the Senators' strategic success.
Nick Cousins was rightfully named the game's first star, providing incredible energy and impactful play. His efforts were emblematic of a Senators squad that played with determination and purpose from the opening puck drop to the final buzzer.
In net, James Reimer provided steady goaltending, holding down the fort with key saves at crucial moments to preserve the lead and secure the win against the NHL's top team.
Detailed Player Grades and Analysis
Tim Stützle: A-
Stützle set an aggressive tone early with a tenacious forecheck against Keaton Middleton, stripping the puck from the towering Avalanche defender. He followed this with one of his best defensive performances in weeks, contributing a secondary assist and adding an empty-net goal to seal the victory.
Brady Tkachuk: A-
Lively and engaged throughout the contest, Tkachuk displayed exceptional battle level along the boards in the offensive zone. He registered two official takeaways, though his defensive pressure likely warranted more. Tkachuk was unlucky not to score on the power play, hitting a crossbar and being denied by a spectacular glove save from goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood. He was rewarded with an empty-net goal, extending his point streak to 12 points over his last eight games.
Fabian Zetterlund: A
A move to the fourth line appeared to ignite Zetterlund, who was an absolute force in his limited 12:16 of ice time. He was disruptive in all zones, intercepting clearing attempts, picking off passes in the neutral zone, and even stripping the puck from elite defenseman Cale Makar on a shorthanded rush. Zetterlund generated high-quality scoring chances, including a power-play drive to the net and a third-period breakaway, in a remarkably impactful zero-point outing.
Dylan Cozens: C+
Cozens managed a dangerous quick shot from the high slot during a second-period power play. He finished the game with one shot, one hit, and a 4-for-11 record in the face-off circle over 14:44 of total ice time.
Drake Batherson: B+
Batherson showcased excellent vision, particularly on the power play, setting up teammates for quality chances. He delivered one of his more spirited forechecking performances in recent memory, using a strong stick to win more puck battles than he lost. His efforts were rewarded with a primary assist on Claude Giroux's third-period goal that made the score 3-1.
A Statement Win for the Senators
This victory represents a significant benchmark for the Ottawa Senators. Defeating the league-leading Avalanche in such a comprehensive fashion—with stifling defense, timely scoring, and contributions across the entire roster—signals the team's potential when playing to its full capability. The performance of role players like Cousins and the defensive excellence of Pinto against elite competition are positive indicators as the season progresses.
