Playoff hockey is returning to Ottawa for the first time in eight years as the Senators secured a playoff berth, igniting celebrations among fans and players alike. Despite a recent 5-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Ottawa clinched their spot after the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Detroit Red Wings. General Manager Steve Staios reflected on the mixed emotions, noting that the team’s performance lacked satisfaction despite the milestone.

The Senators, now holding the first wild-card position in the Eastern Conference, have shown remarkable growth this season. This playoff appearance signifies the culmination of hard work and a significant step forward for a franchise that has faced years of rebuilding. With several players, including captain Brady Tkachuk and prominent stars like Tim Stutzle, gearing up for their first playoff experiences, excitement within the organization is palpable.

In a thrilling matchup, the Ottawa Senators edged out the Detroit Red Wings with a 4-3 victory, bolstered by strong performances from Thomas Chabot and Tim Stutzle, who each scored in the first period. Linus Ullmark's 31 saves were pivotal as the Senators maintained their spot in the Eastern Conference wildcard race, now winning eight of their last eleven games. Despite a late surge from the Red Wings, including goals from Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko, they could not overcome a three-goal deficit following Michael Amadio's breakaway goal in the third.

The Senators now sit six points clear of the Montreal Canadiens, who are vying for the second wildcard spot. Ottawa’s power play efficiency was a highlight, as was their ability to capitalize on Detroit's struggles, which went 1 for 6 on the power play. With both teams facing crucial matchups ahead, the Senators will host Columbus, while the Red Wings will take on the formidable Boston Bruins on Saturday night.

Alex Ovechkin has made another significant stride in his quest to surpass Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record, scoring the tying goal against the New York Rangers. This goal brings Ovechkin to 885 career goals, just ten shy of Gretzky's 894. His performance not only helped the Washington Capitals secure a 3-2 overtime victory but also tied him with Gretzky for the most game-tying goals scored in the last ten minutes of regulation in NHL history.

Jack Eichel and Tim Stützle also shone bright in their respective games, each hitting the 20-goal mark this season. Eichel's contributions led the Golden Knights to victory over the Maple Leafs, while Stützle's overtime winner secured a crucial win for the Senators, placing them in the final wild card spot of the Eastern Conference.

In a thrilling overtime showdown, Tim Stutzle found the back of the net just 46 seconds into the extra period, securing a 4-3 victory for the Ottawa Senators against the Chicago Blackhawks. Stutzle's decisive goal came on a deflected shot off his skate after a swift rush into the zone. Captain Brady Tkachuk opened the scoring for Ottawa with his 24th goal of the season, while David Perron and Josh Norris also contributed goals. For Chicago, Ryan Donato scored his 100th career goal and is currently on a scoring streak, marking his fourth goal in three games. Teuvo Teravainen and Craig Smith added to the Blackhawks' tally. Ottawa dominated faceoffs, winning 57.8%, and will face the New York Rangers next, while Chicago prepares to host Utah.

In a closely contested matchup, the Chicago Blackhawks faced the Ottawa Senators and fell short in overtime, losing 4-3. Despite the loss, the Blackhawks showcased resilience, coming back multiple times during the game. Brady Tkachuk opened the scoring early for Ottawa, but Ryan Donato's goal leveled the game, followed by Teuvo Teravainen and David Perron giving Chicago a temporary lead.

However, Ottawa responded with a one-time goal from Josh Norris, regaining the advantage. The final moments were marked by a controversial goal from Tim Stutzle, initially questioned for goaltender interference, but ultimately upheld after video review. This defeat frustrated Chicago players, who believed they played well but felt the calls didn't favor them.