Jake Sanderson Out for Game 4 as Senators Face Elimination

James Guillory-Imagn Images

Jake Sanderson Out for Game 4 as Senators Face Elimination

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Apr 24, 2026 2:29 PM ET

The Ottawa Senators have been dealt a significant blow in their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes. After defenseman Jake Sanderson took a hit to the head and also blocked a shot with his hand, he was officially ruled out of Game 4 with a concussion, according to head coach Travis Green.

Sanderson left Game 3 and did not return, and his absence is now confirmed to extend into the next game as the Senators face possible elimination.

The injury occurred during a chaotic sequence that included a hit from Taylor Hall, which has drawn considerable attention. Green was flabergasted that the officials did not review the hit, and they’re also isn’t likely to be supplemental discipline on the play.

Despite growing scrutiny over the Hall hit, it seems like he’s going to get away with it. According to insiders, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety has already decided it will not schedule any further review at this time.

“It’s pretty obvious why he left the game,” Green told reporters. “I just don’t understand how there’s not a five-minute major called on a hit to the head. It’s a blatant hit to the head. The kind of hit you don’t want to see. It’s ridiculous there wasn’t a review.”

Senators Can’t Afford to Lose Sanderson

Easily the most important player for the Senators this season, the loss of Sanderson is a major setback for Ottawa. He had been producing offensively with two assists, but also playing heavy minutes on the back end. As for how he’s doing one day after the hit, “He’s isn’t doing very well,” said coach Green.

With Sanderson sidelined, Ottawa now faces an uphill battle in an already challenging series.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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