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Anton Forsberg, Ottawa Senators (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

Senators News & Rumours: Forsberg, Sanderson, Batherson & Pinto

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers | By The Old Prof | Last updated Apr 6, 2025 12:20 PM ET

The Ottawa Senators put up a huge 3-0 win over the Florida Panthers on Saturday. Senators goalie Anton Forsberg stole the show by stopping 40 shots to earn his third shutout of the season. The win was crucial for Ottawa, as they continue their playoff push. They have now moved seven points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens for the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Jake Sanderson led the team’s offense with a goal and an assist, while Drake Batherson and Matthew Highmore also scored. However, Forsberg’s stellar net play on Saturday ensured that Ottawa took both games in their back-to-back series against Florida opponents. Ottawa had taken a 2-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday.

The Panthers, on the other hand, are floundering a bit. They could find no answers for a hot goalie and dropped their fourth straight game. It was the first time they had been shut out since Dec. 28. That said, Florida is still battling injuries, including the absence of star forward Matthew Tkachuk. They’ve entered the postseason before without much momentum down the stretch and have done just fine. So, don’t count the Stanley Cup winners out.

Still, as it stands, the Senators are firmly in control of their playoff destiny. It’s been a good season for the team from the nation’s capital.

Item One: Forsberg’s Shutout Steals the Show

As noted, Forsberg was spectacular in Saturday’s win. He came under heavy pressure, and Florida poured shots on his net throughout the game. But he was more than up to the test. His highlight-reel save on Sam Reinhart late in the second period showed how quick his reflexes could be.

Forsberg’s .907 save percentage on the season and 2.57 goals-against average might not be elite numbers. Yet, he’s a determined netminder, which allows him to rise to the challenge. He could become an X-factor in his team’s playoff chances. The Senators will benefit as Forsberg continues his strong play as the regular season winds down and they push for their first playoff berth since 2017.

Item Two: Jake Sanderson’s Strong Offensive Contribution

Jake Sanderson played a key role in the win. He scored his 11th goal of the season and added a power-play assist. He’s been on a tear, putting up points in three straight games and adding to his already impressive season with a career-high 53 points (including 42 assists) after 75 games.

The 22-year-old defenseman has grown into one of Ottawa’s top blueliners. His continued offensive production has been essential to his team’s playoff push. As Ottawa engages in its final regular-season stretch, Sanderson’s play at both ends of the ice is crucial to solidifying its playoff spot. It will have to be a complete implosion now for the Senators not to make the postseason.

Item 3: Drake Batherson’s Power-Play Prowess

Drake Batherson added to the Senators’ lead with his 11th power-play goal. His goal late in the first period gave Ottawa the insurance it needed. Batherson’s physicality was also a force. He registered six hits, two takeaways, and blocked two shots.

Drake Batherson, Ottawa Senators (Jess Starr/The Hockey Writers)

With 60 points this season, Batherson is one of Ottawa’s most reliable offensive players. He now ranks second in team scoring and has become a key part of the Senators’ power-play unit. His growth into a top-line winger has come at the right time.

Item 4: Shane Pinto’s Recent Resurgence

Shane Pinto added an assist to his season’s total in Saturday’s win. After a brief six-game point drought, he’s added three assists in his last five games. He’s established himself as a top middle-six forward with 17 goals and 15 assists (for 32 points) this season. As the Senators play out their final regular-season games, Pinto’s contributions will be key for their stretch run.

What’s Next for the Senators?

The Senators have six regular-season games to go. They host the Columbus Blue Jackets later today. Ottawa’s playoff chances seem assured. However, for that to matter in the long run, they must continue playing with the intensity they’ve shown recently.

As for Forsberg, look for him to see more action down the stretch as Ottawa’s backup netminder. With how he’s played in recent games, if called upon, he should be able to step up with the team and not miss a beat. Ottawa’s balance of strong goaltending, offensive contributions from their top players, and increased depth scoring gives them a real shot during the playoffs.

Could the Senators be creating the kind of team that gives them a chance to make a playoff push after they end their seven-year postseason drought?