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Senators Set for Postseason Tune-Up Against Blackhawks
The Ottawa Senators may have already punched their ticket to the postseason, but they’re not coasting into it. As they gear up for their second-to-last regular-season game on Tuesday against the Chicago Blackhawks, all eyes are on captain Brady Tkachuk—and his health.
Tkachuk skated in a non-contact jersey at Monday’s practice, his first appearance with the group since suffering an upper-body injury on March 30 vs. Pittsburgh. With 29 goals and 55 points in 71 games this season, he’s the emotional and physical core of this team.
“He needs the reps,” head coach Travis Green said. “If you want to be at your best when the games really matter, you’ve got to get some ice time with the group.”
Tkachuk is expected to be ready for the Eastern Conference first-round series, where Ottawa will face either the Toronto Maple Leafs or Tampa Bay Lightning.
For full wild-card updates and playoff outlook, visit the NHL Conference Predictions.
Stutzle Heating Up at the Right Time
With Tkachuk out, Tim Stutzle has taken the reins. He posted two goals and an assist in Sunday’s overtime win against Philadelphia, bringing his total to 75 points (23G, 52A) in 80 games.
Still just 23, Stutzle is showing that his ceiling is sky-high. “He’s still figuring it out,” Green said. “Most guys don’t hit their peak until 25 or later. That’s exciting for us.”
With a 5-1-0 stretch in their last six, Ottawa is building playoff rhythm, even without its captain. For more player analysis, check the NHL Team Page.
Chicago Closes Out Season With a Final Statement
It’s been a long season for the Chicago Blackhawks, but they’re showing fight all the way to the finish. After a thrilling 4-3 shootout win in Montreal on Monday, Chicago heads into their final game of the season at 24-46-11.
Frank Nazar, a bright spot for the rebuild, scored in regulation and buried the shootout winner. “We had a plan, and we stuck to it,” he said.
The shootout win spoiled the Canadiens’ playoff hopes, and that kind of result shows a young team learning how to win tough games. Nick Foligno highlighted the team’s growth: “They scored late, but we bounced back. That’s a step in the right direction.”
Young Talent Emerging
Tyler Bertuzzi and Lucas Reichel also lit the lamp in the Montreal game, while Arvid Soderblom stopped 18 shots and was perfect in the shootout.
These are the kinds of performances Chicago needs as they continue to develop a new core, looking to return to playoff relevance in the years ahead.
Stay up to date with franchise futures by checking the NHL Atlantic Division Odds.
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What This Game Means
This game isn’t meaningless for the Senators. It’s a playoff primer. They’ll want to tighten up defensive details, keep the power play clicking, and build chemistry as they await confirmation of their first-round opponent.
Coach Green may manage minutes for key players, but don’t expect them to take it easy. For a team that’s been outside the playoff picture in recent years, every rep counts.
Explore more postseason trends in our Stanley Cup Odds and Predictions.
For Chicago: End with Pride
The Blackhawks may be out of the race, but morale matters. A win over a playoff-bound Ottawa team would be a strong finish for a franchise deep into its rebuild. Plus, young players are earning their stripes and showing they belong.
