How Saturday’s game can make or break the Senators season

The Ottawa Senators have had a very up-and-down season, and it all may come down to Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Wild.

There is a four-way tie for the last wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference, and the Senators currently hold it over the Columbus Blue Jackets, Philadelphia Flyers, and Detroit Red Wings. The Senators have the edge in regulation wins, making them the winner of the tiebreaker.

However, the Senators’ defense has been on its last legs since early March. Injuries have plagued the team, and they have used 13 different defensemen amid the struggles. Jake Sanderson, Nick Jensen, Dennis Gilbert, Thomas Chabot, Carter Yakemchuk, and now most recently, Tyler Kleven.

Yet, the team has found unsung heroes to step up. Jordan Spence commanded the blue line in their win over the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday, having a career high 30:48 time on ice.

With only seven games left for the Senators, the team needs the most out of their team, especially from goaltender Linus Ullmark. Ullmark has come under scrutiny lately, as he did not play against the Tampa Bay Lightning last Saturday due to rest. Then, on Monday, he was pulled after allowing five goals on 16 shots. On Thursday, though, he stepped up when the team needed him, stopping 21 of 22 shots against the Sabres.

Saturday’s game against the Wild won’t come easy. The Wild have already clinched a playoff spot, yet they are looking for home-ice advantage in their series. The Senators will need everyone to give it their all one game at a time.

About the Author Published Apr 4, 2026

CAMERON JOYCE

Cameron Joyce is an NCAAF, NFL, NHL, and MLB beat writer for Ball Exclusives. Cameron also previously worked at The University of Alabama's newspaper, "The Crimson White," covering volleyball and baseball.