The Ottawa Senators have finally made their long-awaited return to the NHL playoffs, clinching the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference after an eight-year absence. They will kick off their playoff campaign against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday.

For team leaders like Brady Tkachuk and Thomas Chabot, this will be their first playoff experience despite racking up 512 games in the NHL. Tkachuk reflected on the journey, acknowledging the challenges they've faced and the growth it has fostered within the team. Young stars such as Tim Stutzle and Drake Batherson are equally excited but admit to feeling the nerves that come with playoff hockey.

Under new head coach Travis Green, the team has developed a resilience this season that was lacking in previous years. With key veteran additions like David Perron and Nick Jensen, the Senators are poised to not just compete but thrive in the postseason.