Senators clinch playoff spot after Devils defeat Red Wings

Ottawa secures second straight postseason appearance with New Jersey's win over Detroit.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:07am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game, with the players and ice reduced to angular, overlapping shapes in bold colors, conveying the dynamic energy of the sport.The Senators' playoff berth is the result of a team effort, with the Devils' victory over the Red Wings the final piece of the puzzle.Today in Detroit

The Ottawa Senators have clinched a playoff berth for the second consecutive season. The Senators needed the New Jersey Devils to defeat the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday in order to secure their postseason spot, which the Devils accomplished with a 5-3 victory over the Red Wings.

Why it matters

The Senators' return to the playoffs comes after the team missed the postseason for several years, underscoring their recent resurgence as a competitive franchise in the NHL's Eastern Conference.

The details

Ottawa entered the final day of the regular season needing help from the Devils in order to clinch a playoff spot. New Jersey obliged, handing the Red Wings a 5-3 defeat to punch the Senators' ticket to the postseason.

  • The Senators clinched their playoff berth on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Ottawa missed the playoffs for several seasons before returning last year.

The players

Ottawa Senators

A professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa, Ontario, and a member of the National Hockey League.

New Jersey Devils

A professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey, and a member of the National Hockey League.

Detroit Red Wings

A professional ice hockey team based in Detroit, Michigan, and a member of the National Hockey League.

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What’s next

The Senators will now prepare for their upcoming playoff series, with the specific opponent and schedule to be determined.

The takeaway

The Senators' return to the playoffs is a testament to the team's recent resurgence and ability to capitalize on opportunities, securing their second straight postseason appearance.