After a seven-year playoff drought, the Ottawa Senators clinched a playoff spot on April 14, 2025, despite a 5-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

This playoff berth represents the culmination of years of rebuilding, signaling a hopeful new chapter for a franchise eager to return to championship contention.

Under new ownership led by Michael Andlauer, the team hired Travis Green as head coach in May 2024, bringing a fresh perspective and a commitment to winning.

General Manager Pierre Dorion's initial rebuilding plan, developed with the late owner Eugene Melnyk, faced challenges, leading to his dismissal in November 2023 after poor performances.

Green's coaching significantly improved the Senators' defense, transforming it from one of the league's worst to a competitive unit that allowed only 1.84 goals per game during a crucial midseason stretch.

The goaltending situation also saw a turnaround with the acquisition of Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark, who provided stability with a .911 save percentage and a 24-14-3 record this season.

Key elements contributing to the Senators' resurgence included a focus on youth, coaching changes, and improved defensive play, bolstered by the leadership of veterans like Claude Giroux and David Perron.

Players such as Brady Tkachuk and Thomas Chabot have expressed pride in overcoming past struggles, emphasizing their commitment to achieving postseason success together.

Eugene Melnyk, the late owner of the Senators, had confidently predicted in 2020 that the team would win a Stanley Cup within four years, despite not making the playoffs since 2017.