The Ottawa Senators are fortifying their defensive lineup ahead of their Sunday night clash with the Dallas Stars, recalling blueliner Dennis Gilbert from their AHL affiliate in Belleville.
Defensive Shuffle for Sunday's Game
This move comes as the team navigates a series of injuries on the back end. While winger Ridly Greig has rejoined the team and could make his return after a two-week absence, the defence corps has taken a significant hit.
The Senators placed top-pairing defenceman Thomas Chabot on injured reserve, sidelining him indefinitely with an upper-body muscle issue. Chabot had just returned from a previous injury sustained against the Stars on November 11, but was reinjured last Saturday against the San Jose Sharks.
Injury Concerns and Potential Returns
Further compounding the defensive woes, Tyler Kleven is also a question mark after blocking a shot early in Friday's 4-3 loss to the St. Louis Blues. Although Kleven finished that game with 18 minutes and 34 seconds of ice time, his availability for the Dallas game remains uncertain pending further examination.
The recall of Dennis Gilbert, who was acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers two weeks ago in exchange for Max Guenette, provides crucial insurance. This situation is a stark contrast to the beginning of the season when the Senators were dealing with a surplus of healthy defencemen.
Coach's Update on Player Availability
On a more positive note, head coach Travis Green expressed optimism about Greig's potential return. "That's good. That's positive. Possibility of having him on Sunday, so that's good to have him back," Green told the team's website after Saturday's practice in Dallas.
As the Senators prepare to close out November, the health of their defensive unit will be a key factor against a formidable Stars opponent.
