Senators Surge Past Sharks in High-Scoring Affair

Drake Batherson's two goals, including the game-winner, lead Ottawa to 7-4 victory over San Jose

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:48am

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In a thrilling NHL matchup, the Ottawa Senators defeated the visiting San Jose Sharks by a score of 7-4. Drake Batherson led the way for the Senators, scoring two goals, including the go-ahead tally in the third period. Fabian Zetterlund, Warren Foegele, and Brady Tkachuk also found the back of the net for Ottawa, while Linus Ullmark made 19 saves in the win. Mario Ferraro and Tyler Toffoli scored for the Sharks, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Senators' offensive onslaught.

Why it matters

This victory continues the Senators' recent surge, as they have now won 5 of their last 6 games. The win also keeps Ottawa in the hunt for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. For the Sharks, the loss is another setback in what has been a challenging season, as they look to turn things around and make a late-season push.

The details

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading goals throughout. Batherson's two tallies, including the game-winner in the third period, proved to be the difference. The Senators also received strong performances from Zetterlund, Foegele, and Tkachuk, who all found the scoresheet. On the Sharks' side, Ferraro and Toffoli were the offensive standouts, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Senators' firepower.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 16, 2026.
  • Batherson's go-ahead goal came at the 13:08 mark of the third period.

The players

Drake Batherson

A forward for the Ottawa Senators who scored two goals, including the game-winner, in the victory over the Sharks.

Linus Ullmark

The goaltender for the Ottawa Senators who made 19 saves to secure the win.

Mario Ferraro

A defenseman for the San Jose Sharks who scored a goal and added an assist in the losing effort.

Tyler Toffoli

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who scored a goal and recorded an assist in the game.

Brady Tkachuk

A forward for the Ottawa Senators who scored a goal and added an assist in the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was going to be a tough game against a skilled Sharks team, but our guys really stepped up and played a complete game. Drake's goals were huge, and it was a total team effort to get this important win.”

— D.J. Smith, Head Coach, Ottawa Senators (therinklive.com)

“We had our chances, but just couldn't find a way to match their offensive firepower tonight. Credit to the Senators, they capitalized on their opportunities and we couldn't respond. We'll need to regroup and be better in our next game.”

— David Quinn, Head Coach, San Jose Sharks (therinklive.com)

What’s next

The Senators will look to build on this victory as they continue their push for a playoff spot, with their next game scheduled for Tuesday, March 18th against the New York Rangers. The Sharks, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back in their upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday, March 21st.

The takeaway

This high-scoring affair showcased the offensive talent on both sides, but ultimately the Senators' depth and timely scoring from Batherson proved to be the difference. The win keeps Ottawa firmly in the playoff hunt, while the Sharks will need to regroup and find a way to generate more consistent offense if they hope to turn their season around.