As the Ottawa Senators prepare for their highly anticipated season opener against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, significant roster decisions were made on Sunday, marking a pivotal moment for the organization.

After wrapping up the preseason with a solid 4-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, the Senators' management, led by president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios, and head coach Travis Green, faced the challenge of finalizing their roster before the NHL's deadline on Monday. In a notable move, the team placed forwards Adam Gaudette and Jan Jenik on waivers in a bid to reach the league-mandated 23-man roster by the 5 p.m. deadline.

Should neither player be claimed by another team, they will join the Senators' American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville. This decision, while surprising given both players had strong training camps, highlights the fierce competition for spots on the roster. Coach Green's focus as the team convenes for practice on Monday will be on sharpening gameplay as they shift from training camp to real competition.

Currently, the Senators maintain 24 players on their roster. Following an upper-body injury sustained by winger Matthew Highmore during the game against Montreal, there is speculation he may be placed on long-term injured reserve. This move could facilitate the Senators’ compliance with the roster limit. Their current lineup consists of 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goalies, including the promising 2024 first-round draft pick, Carter Yakemchuk.

Excitingly, rookie center Zack Ostapchuk is expected to begin the season with the Senators, joining fellow rookie defenseman Tyler Kleven, who spent the previous season in the AHL. Their presence signifies the team's commitment to integrating young talent into the lineup, with Yakemchuk standing out during training camp despite initial plans to return him to junior hockey.

As the Senators look ahead, they have implemented eight new faces into their roster compared to last season, demonstrating a commitment to bolstering their lineup for the upcoming campaign. This infusion of talent offers coach Green a plethora of options, especially regarding defensive pairings.

Interestingly, the goaltending situation is also looking bright with Linus Ullmark having a productive preseason, potentially signaling a shift in stability for the Senators' net. Coach Green will emphasize improved team performance in front of Ullmark as they set their sights on a playoff run in the highly competitive Atlantic Division.

As the excitement mounts, center Shane Pinto, who recently secured a hat trick against the Canadiens, expressed enthusiasm for the season. “We’ve just gotta have a few good practices and then be ready for Thursday. We’re just glad that regular-season hockey is here. We’re excited,” Pinto said.

With training camp concluded, the real work begins. Coach Green is optimistic about the group and eager to implement strategies that will guide the Senators toward their goal of contention in the NHL. The team aims to prove that they can rise to the challenge as they embark on this crucial season.

Expected Opening Night Roster:

Forwards:

- Brady Tkachuk

- Tim Stutzle

- Claude Giroux

- David Perron

- Josh Norris

- Drake Batherson

- Ridly Greig

- Shane Pinto

- Michael Amadio

- Noah Gregor

- Zack Ostapchuk

- Nick Cousins

- **Extra:** Zack MacEwen

Defensemen:

- Jake Sanderson

- Artem Zub

- Thomas Chabot

- Nick Jensen

- Tyler Kleven

- Carter Yakemchuk

- **Extras:** Travis Hamonic, Jacob Bernard-Docker

Goaltenders:

- Linus Ullmark

- Anton Forsberg

Injured:

- Matthew Highmore

The Senators look to take the ice with renewed determination, ready to start their journey in the 2023-2024 NHL season. Will they be able to capitalize on the changes and emerge as serious contenders? Only time will tell as the puck drops on the new season!