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Ottawa Senators Usually Durable Forward Sidelined

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Dr. Sammy Vogel-Seidenberg | Last updated Sep 24, 2025 4:56 PM ET

The Ottawa Senators will be without key forward Drake Batherson. The Drake Batherson injury will have him miss at least two weeks. This is after the winger suffered a pulled muscle in his upper body, head coach Travis Green confirmed Wednesday.

Drake Batherson Injury Details and Timeline

Batherson exited practice early on Tuesday. Moreover, he did not take part in Wednesday’s skate, prompting concerns about his readiness for the regular season. The exact nature of his injury has not been disclosed, but it is assumed to be a pulled muscle. Given that the Senators still have four pre-season matchups ahead of their October 9th opener, there is hope that Batherson could recover in time. Although, we must keep in mind, nothing is guaranteed.

Batherson’s Importance to Ottawa

Batherson, age 27, had the best season of his NHL career in 2024–25, posting a career-high 68 points (26 goals, 42 assists) over 82 games. He added a goal and an assist in Ottawa’s six playoff games. The news of this setback is especially concerning given his durability. He had not missed a game since the 2021–22 season.

Health updates from Sens HC Travis Green.

Jensen (Hip)
Continues to get closer

Eller (Abs)
Close to joining the main group.

Kleven (LB)
Could resume skating as early as tomorrow.

Batherson (UB)
Pulled a muscle.
Out for about 2 weeks.

— TSN 1200 Ottawa (@TSN1200) September 24, 2025

Growing Injury Concerns

This latest injury adds to Ottawa’s mounting health concerns. young defenceman Tyler Kleven was also absent from practice Wednesday after a collision with the boards in the club’s first pre-season game. Meanwhile, veterans Nick Jensen and Lars Eller, who began camp late due to hip and abdominal issues respectively, remain in recovery and have uncertain statuses. However, it does seem like all three aren’t all that far from being available.

Impact on the Senators

For the Senators, the timing is unfortunate. Batherson was expected to play a leading offensive role again this season. His absence will force adjustments in the forward lines and power play units. With the regular season less than three weeks away, Ottawa will be watching his recovery schedule closely. Dylan Cozens especially, who has formed excellent chemistry with Batherson, will anxiously await his return.

If Batherson’s timeline holds, he could miss all remaining pre-season contests but potentially return in time for opening night. Still, the “at least” qualifier signals that the club will remain cautious about rushing him back.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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