Senators Fall in OT Thriller Against Devils
Ottawa's Senators couldn't hold on Sunday night, dropping a 4-3 overtime decision to the New Jersey Devils in what was their second-to-last game of the 2025–26 NHL regular season.
It was a gut-punch finish. With the game tied and overtime winding down, Devils captain Nico Hischier found the back of the net on a power play with just 1:45 remaining in the extra frame — silencing what had been a competitive, back-and-forth contest.
A Power Play That Hurt
Hischier's winner was his second goal of the night, making him the difference-maker in New Jersey's victory. It's the kind of moment that stings in any game, but especially late in a season when momentum and morale are everything heading into the offseason.
For the Senators, conceding a power-play goal in overtime is a tough pill to swallow — it's a situation that demands near-perfect discipline, and New Jersey made them pay for a lapse at the worst possible time.
A Long Season Comes to a Close
With only one game left on the schedule, the Senators are wrapping up a campaign that won't be remembered fondly. Ottawa has missed the playoffs, and while there have been flashes of promise throughout the year — young talent developing, some highlight-reel moments — the consistency simply wasn't there.
For Ottawa fans who packed into arenas or watched from home all season, Sunday's loss is yet another frustrating note to end on. But there's a silver lining that Sens faithful have been clinging to all year: the future.
Eyes on the Draft and the Rebuild
With the regular season effectively over, attention in Ottawa now shifts to the NHL Draft lottery and what the offseason holds. The Senators have been in rebuild mode, and another high pick could mean another piece added to what management hopes will be a contending core in the coming years.
Names like Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and a growing pool of prospects give reason for optimism, even when results like Sunday's sting. The rebuild is a marathon, not a sprint — and Ottawa fans know that better than anyone.
What's Next
The Senators close out their season with one final game before heading into what promises to be a busy offseason. Roster decisions, coaching evaluations, and draft positioning will all be front and centre as the organization looks to take the next step toward playoff contention.
For now, it's a tough loss — but Ottawa hockey isn't going anywhere. Sens fans will be back next October, ready to believe again.
Source: CBC Ottawa
