Senators D Jake Sanderson rejoins lineup at crunch time

Ottawa defenseman returns from upper-body injury as team battles for playoff spot

Apr. 4, 2026 at 7:48pm

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Ottawa Senators defenseman Jake Sanderson made his return to the ice on Saturday afternoon against the Minnesota Wild after missing 13 games due to an upper-body injury. Sanderson's return comes at a crucial time for the Senators, who are battling for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

Sanderson's return is a significant boost for the Senators as they fight to secure a postseason berth. As one of the team's top defensemen, his presence on the ice will be crucial in helping Ottawa fend off the Detroit Red Wings, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Philadelphia Flyers, all of whom are also vying for the final wild-card spot in the East.

The details

Sanderson, 23, has 48 points (11 goals, 37 assists) in 62 games this season, leading Senators defensemen in scoring. He was selected by Ottawa with the 5th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft and has 175 points (36 goals, 139 assists) in 298 career games.

  • Sanderson last played on March 7, when the Senators defeated the Seattle Kraken 7-4.
  • Sanderson missed 13 games due to the upper-body injury.
  • Sanderson returned to the lineup on Saturday, April 4, 2026, against the Minnesota Wild.

The players

Jake Sanderson

A 23-year-old defenseman for the Ottawa Senators who was selected 5th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft. He has 48 points (11 goals, 37 assists) in 62 games this season, leading Senators defensemen in scoring.

Ottawa Senators

An NHL team based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada that is currently battling for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Detroit Red Wings

An NHL team based in Detroit, Michigan that is also vying for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Columbus Blue Jackets

An NHL team based in Columbus, Ohio that is also competing for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Philadelphia Flyers

An NHL team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that is also in the hunt for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

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What they’re saying

“Sanderson's return is a huge boost for us at this critical time of the season. He's one of our top defensemen and his presence on the ice will be invaluable as we fight to secure a playoff spot.”

— D.J. Smith, Head Coach, Ottawa Senators

What’s next

The Senators will need to continue their strong play down the stretch to hold off the Red Wings, Blue Jackets, and Flyers and clinch a playoff berth. Sanderson's return should provide a significant boost to their defensive corps and offensive production.

The takeaway

Jake Sanderson's return to the Ottawa Senators' lineup comes at a crucial juncture in the season, as the team battles for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. As one of their top defensemen, Sanderson's presence will be vital in helping the Senators fend off the surging Red Wings, Blue Jackets, and Flyers and secure a postseason berth.