The Ottawa Senators get a major boost as Brady Tkachuk, Josh Norris, and Shane Pinto return to the lineup. Tkachuk’s clear message sets the tone for a crucial playoff push. Can they turn the season around?

Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators looks on against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena on February 08, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

© Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators looks on against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena on February 08, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

The Ottawa Senators have received a much-needed boost with the return of three key players: Brady Tkachuk, Josh Norris, and Shane Pinto. All three have overcome their respective injuries and will be in the lineup for the upcoming matchup against the San Jose Sharks in the NHL.

This significant return comes at a critical time for the Senators, who are looking to snap a five-game losing streak and keep their playoff hopes alive. The reintegration of these players not only strengthens the lineup but also injects a dose of optimism and determination into the locker room.

Brady Tkachuk, the team’s captain, returns after missing two games due to a lower-body injury sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he represented the United States. His presence on the top line, alongside Tim Stützle and Claude Giroux, is crucial to the Senators’ offensive success.

With 44 points in 56 games, Tkachuk is a leader both on and off the ice. His return sends a clear message that the Senators are not giving up on their playoff push. “I’m excited for this opportunity to kind of show everybody what this group is all about,” Tkachuk said, according to NHL.com. “I know we’re in a little bit of a skid right now, but I’m really looking forward to getting on the ice and kind of proving all the doubters wrong.”

Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators makes a save against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at the Amalie Arena on February 4, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)

Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators makes a save against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at the Amalie Arena on February 4, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)

Josh Norris and Shane Pinto add depth

Josh Norris, the second-line center, returns after missing six games with a mid-body injury. “There’s not a ton that you can do when you’re hurt other than rehab and do your best and just think about hockey 24/7,” Norris said Friday. “I’ve definitely pictured myself coming back, and I think we’ve got 24 games left. It’s really intense and exciting hockey. These are the types of games that you don’t want to miss.”

Shane Pinto, the third-line center, also returns after missing four games with an upper-body injury. The decision to be cautious with his rehabilitation, especially with the 4 Nations Face-Off break approaching, demonstrates the team’s long-term vision. “I think it was that they wanted me for the last 25 [games]; they didn’t want to risk anything that early, especially with the [4 Nations Face-Off] break coming up,” Pinto said. “So, it worked out.”

A turning point for the Senators

The Senators are in a challenging position, sitting four points behind the Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets, who currently hold the wild-card spots in the Eastern Conference. The losing streak has tested the team’s morale, but the return of Tkachuk, Norris, and Pinto offers a chance to revitalize their season.

The experience and leadership of these players will be crucial in guiding the Senators through their playoff push. The chemistry between the returning stars and their teammates could define the rest of the season, as Ottawa looks to capitalize on this momentum and make a strong push for the NHL postseason.