NHL News

Senators News & Rumors: Forsberg, Chabot, and Sanderson

Last night, although Alex Ovechkin got a goal closer to Wayne Gretzky’s record, the Ottawa Senators came back to beat the Capitals in OT.

by
Old Prof
January 31, 2025

The Ottawa Senators came from behind to beat the Washington Capitals 5-4 in overtime on Thursday. Alex Ovechkin scored his 23rd goal of the season, moving within 19 of Wayne Gretzky’s record, but it wasn’t enough for Washington.

The Senators special teams played a big role in the win. Josh Norris scored on a rare penalty shot and added another goal. Ridly Greig, Shane Pinto, and Jake Sanderson also hit the back of the net. Thomas Chabot sealed the win with an overtime goal on his birthday. Goalie Anton Forsberg made 31 saves for the Senators, beating Charlie Lindgren, who stopped 29 shots. Despite Ovechkin’s goal, the Capitals couldn’t capitalize on their power plays, finishing 1-for-6 with the man advantage.

Forsberg Gets Third Win in Four Starts

Anton Forsberg earned his third win in four starts. He kept Ottawa in the game despite a late comeback from the Capitals, setting up Thomas Chabot’s overtime game-winner. With Linus Ullmark still sidelined due to a back injury, Forsberg has been solid with Leevi Merilainen, helping keep the Senators competitive between the pipes. The 32-year-old continues to play a key role in Ottawa’s recent success.

Chabot Scores Overtime Winner in Senators’ 5-4 Victory

Thomas Chabot played a huge role in Thursday’s Senators’ 5-4 overtime win over the Capitals. The 28-year-old blue liner was left alone in the slot and threw the game-winner past Lindgren. Chabot also contributed an assist and registered five shots on goal. January was a strong month for Chabot, who recorded one goal and six points over 14 games. His offense and solid defense have added value to the team’s strong play.

Sanderson Adds to His Point Streak in Senators’ Win

Jake Sanderson is hot. He added to his run with a goal and an assist. The 2020 fifth-overall draft pick has put up points in three straight games. He’s had a January to remember with a goal and eight points in 12 games. He’s also headed for his third 30-point season, which gives the Senators a nice group of young offensive defensemen. If he can continue to grow, his team will be in good shape headed into a future that should be filled with more success.

<a rel= — Coach Travis Green’s Senators are playing well and have a chance for the playoffs.

What’s Next for the Senators?

If goalie Linus Ullmark can return to his early-season form, the Senators can make a strong playoff push. What a surprise the Senators’ goalies have been. Without Ullmark’s injury, they wouldn’t have known the organization’s strength in the goaltending system. It’s odd how things like that can work to an advantage.