SENSNEWS

The first day of Ottawa Senators training camp is in the books, and it certainly had a different feel from years past.

Head coach Travis Green wasted no time setting the tone as players hit the ice with an intensity we never really saw under D.J. Smith. From the first whistle, there was no coasting or going half-speed from anyone.

“The group came prepared,” Green said. “The conditioning level of our players is in a good place.” A great takeaway for a coach that certainly isn’t shy about pushing his players.

We were expecting a very tough training camp. It’s going to continue being very competitive, and as Green put it, “The best guys play.”

Ottawa Senators Training Camp Roster

Skating Hard Right Out of the Gate

Day 1 was all about setting the pace and seeing the players’ work ethic. There was almost no downtime between drills, which meant the skating for the group was relentless.

Lots. Of. Hard. Skating. There was no room for slacking, and the team responded very well to the tone set by Travis Green.

“No half-speed drills,” was how TSN1200 described the first day. It’s clear Green is looking to whip this group into shape, and he has no room for complacency.

With a few roster spots up for grabs, the message has been that no one can afford to take it easy.

Norris Speaks On New Season

Travis Green clarified Norris’ position, saying that he sees him as a center. Norris also spoke about his experiences during his time in Ottawa, and he didn’t mince words after the session.

“It’s been a tough go for a long time here,” Norris said. “We’re all sick of it, the fans are sick of it, and they deserve better. We’re ready to take that step.” Fair to say this is what fans want to hear from the players.

Norris also made it clear that he and the team have moved on from the past. “The past is the past, I don’t want to talk about it.”

So long as he can stay healthy, it sounds as though Norris is motivated to have a big comeback season with the Sens.

Jake Sanderson’s Big Summer

Defenseman Jake Sanderson turned heads on Day 1. There is, of course, his on-ice play which, as we know, speaks for itself. But he also looks to have had an excellent offseason of training.

“Jake looks like the Hulk,” Norris said. “He’s shredded right now. He had a big summer. I don’t think he can push it any harder in the gym. He’s a freak.”

It’s high praise, and the expectations for Sanderson are higher than ever. After another year of development, I cannot wait to see what Jake Sanderson can do.

Injury Update

One name missing from the ice was goaltender Leevi Meriläinen, who is currently sidelined with a groin injury. Fortunately, it’s not expected to keep him out long.

“It’s nothing too serious,” Green confirmed. In his place was goaltender Dustin Tokarski, whom the Senators signed to a PTO earlier in the day.

Linus Ullmark “Thriving”

On the other hand, Linus Ullmark looked sharp and energetic. When asked if he managed to “survive” the first day of camp, Ullmark didn’t hesitate. “Survived? Thriving!”

He laughed. If you don’t love Linus Ullmark by now, I can’t see why. His attitude is super refreshing for fans, and his on-ice play should back it up.

Carter Yakemchuk Standing Out

While the core players obviously held the spotlight, there was also a buzz around some of the younger players. Specifically, the Senators’ 7th overall pick.

Green highlighted Carter Yakemchuk as a standout on the first day after pairing him with Thomas Chabot. “Sometimes you wonder if it’s going to be too much for certain players,” Green said. “But I thought he looked good.”

Yakemchuk struggled during rookie camp, although he was still able to produce despite the lackluster roster. If he is keeping up at main camp, that should fill fans with confidence as we approach the new season.

Eyes on the Playoffs

It’s no secret that the Senators have their sights set on a playoff push this season. Steve Staios, the team’s General Manager, made that clear on Day 1. “We want to challenge for a playoff spot,” he said.

The opening day of training camp has set the stage for what will be a massive season for the Senators.

With a group that looks hungry, focused, and determined to leave past frustrations behind, fans have every reason to be optimistic.

As Green’s camp continues, the competition for spots will become more and more contentious, and we should get a good idea of what the opening night roster will look like.

One thing is certain: the Ottawa Senators are ready to turn heads.