Sens Nation - Your Ottawa Senators Podcast
Hosted by former TSN 1200 morning show host Steve Warne, now the site editor for The Hockey News Ottawa, the Sens Nation Podcast keeps you up to date on everything Ottawa Senators. Steve, alongside The Coach, Gregg Kennedy, delivers insightful, knowledgeable, and sometimes brutally honest analysis of the Sens’ latest news and developments. Tune in for exclusive interviews, in-depth features, and commentary on player performances, team strategy, and the future of the franchise. The Sens Nation Podcast has you covered. Visit sensnationhockey.com for more and read Steve at THN.com/Ottawa.
Breaking Down The Senators Wild Draft Weekend
The Senators had one of the busiest NHL Draft weekends ever, and we're breaking down everything.
Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy discuss Ottawa's acquisition of goaltender Samuel Ersson, the gamble on veteran winger Andre Burakovsky, the re-signing of Jordan Spence, and why Steve Staios believes William Eklund fills a major need as a playmaker.
We also examine a draft class loaded with skilled forwards, including first-round picks Jonas Lagerberg Hoen and Jaxon Cover, and what their selections say about the organization's long-term vision.In this episode:
🥅 Is Samuel Ersson really an upgrade in goa...
Swede Relief: As Tkachuk Departs, Senators Acquire William Eklund
In this episode, we discuss the Brady Tkachuk and Steve Staios press conferences, where they both discussed the big deal. We break down the Sens acquiring William Eklund and two prospects for the 9th overall draft pick on Friday. Is Staios done dealing, or is there more to come? Mike Grier talks about why he traded Eklund. We talk about the NHL Draft and the possibility of free agent Connor Ingram filling the backup role in Ottawa. Former Senators head coach DJ Smith agrees to work alongside Mike Babcock in Edmonton. And last year's Belleville head coaches, David Bell...
Brady is Gone: Here's What Happens Next
The Brady Tkachuk era in Ottawa is over.
In one of the biggest trades in franchise history, the Senators have sent their captain to the Florida Panthers for three first-round picks and a second-rounder.
Now what?
In this emergency episode of Sens Nation, Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy break down the blockbuster deal, why it happened, and what comes next for the Ottawa Senators.
Among the topics:
🏒 Did the Senators get enough for Brady Tkachuk?
🏒 Why did Steve Staios make this move now?
🏒 Is another major tra...
Stanley Cup Final Takeaways + A Crucial Senators Offseason Begins
The Stanley Cup Final is over, and now all eyes turn to what could be a crucial offseason for the Ottawa Senators.In this episode, we first break down Carolina's championship run, discuss what's next for John Tortorella and Rod Brind'Amour, and look at Jordan Staal's impressive playoff performance as he ages like fine wine.We also dive into the Sens' offseason outlook, including the challenge of taking the next step when the prospect cupboard is so thin, and you're not a popular free agent destination. We discuss how the Senators should approach the NHL Draft, highlight two prospects...
Summer Patio Chat: Former Senator Brad Smyth Breaks Down Sens Offseason Questions
Out on the patio, we talk Sens hockey with former Ottawa Senator Brad Smyth.
If you were handed the keys to the Senators for one day, what move would you make? We debate Ottawa's biggest offseason priorities, whether the Carolina Hurricanes' sustained success should influence how we evaluate the Senators, and what the future might hold for some of the organization's top young talent.
We also discuss Don Boyd's recent comments on Carter Yakemchuk, whether Brady Tkachuk's career path could eventually mirror players like Quinn Hughes or Dylan Larkin, and what Darnell Nurse's situation says...
Senators Get Some Love In NHL Award Voting; Michael Andlauer Reflects On Season And The Road Ahead
In this episode, we discuss a positive Michael Andlauer media availability on Friday morning. We get into NHL awards season, and some of the Senators garnered some serious votes. Dylan Larkin reportedly wanted a trade out of Detroit, so another Team USA NHL captain wants out. Changes to the NHL All-Star game and skills competition that no one wants. Claude Giroux gets the rarest kind of hole-in-one this week. PWHL expansion draft losses. And some thoughts on the Cup Final so far.
Is Mason McTavish a Trade Target Again? Sens Hire Ullmark's Coach, Matinpalo Wins Gold
In this one, we discuss the latest trade chatter out there about Mason McTavish, who caught up in the rumour mill for a second straight offseason. Belleville coaching candidate Jay McKee heads elsewhere, signing with the Islanders organization. The Sens hire Linus Ullmark's personal goalie coach. Nikolas Matinpalo is a world champion with Finland, and it's been a tough year for Team Canada.
Claude Giroux Back For More, Would Viktor Arvidsson Be A Good Fit In Ottawa?
On this episode of Sens Nation, we discuss Pierre LeBrun’s report that Claude Giroux has decided to return for another season, and whether it’s only a matter of time before he and the Ottawa Senators get a deal done.We also debate whether pending unrestricted free agent Viktor Arvidsson could be a good fit in Ottawa, and whether moving Dylan Cozens to the wing would make sense for the Senators this fall.Plus:Montreal Canadiens fans in Gatineau, along with the Quebec government, push back after the NHL shut down a planned Habs viewing party at the Slus...
Could Devon Levi Be Ullmark’s New Backup? Shutting Down The Local Habs Watch Party
In this episode, brought to you by Jim Keay, Harding Your Home Comfort Centre, and Midas Ottawa, we discuss Kevin Weekes' report that the Senators may be interested in Buffalo Sabres goalie Devon Levi. Would Levi be an upgrade on Leevi? Did the Senators shut down a Montreal Canadiens fan watch party in Gatineau? Former Senator Dave Cameron is back with the 67's and we talk about the two NHL Conference Finals.
Spence's Next Deal, Doug MacLean's Tkachuk Theory, and Sid the Kid Shows Up for Canada...Again
Former Panthers head coach Doug MacLean weighs in on Brady Tkachuk, we discuss the kind of contract we think Jordan Spence will end up with, we get into Vegas losing a draft pick over snubbing the media, and the excellence of Sidney Crosby, showing up for Canada once again. And how the Senators have figured in some of the biggest World Championship goals of all time.
Rasmus Ristolainen? Stuart Skinner? Senators' Potential Offseason Targets
The Senators’ offseason rumour mill is heating up, and we’ve got plenty to unpack on this episode of the Sens Nation Podcast.Could Ottawa have an interest in veteran Flyers defenceman Rasmus Ristolainen? Sounds like they did at the trade deadline. Would the Sens take a look at pending UFA goaltender Stuart Skinner if he hits the market? And after signing Stephen Halliday, does that signal the end for pending UFA Lars Eller in Ottawa?WIn our "Around the League" segment, we discuss the massive changes in Toronto's hockey operations with a new GM and the firing of head...
Guest Drake Batherson: His Season, Summer Ahead, And His Next Contract – 'Ottawa Feels Like Home'
We’re joined by Ottawa Senators winger Drake Batherson. We discuss Batherson's thoughts on his next contract, what sparked Ottawa’s late-season surge, what happened in the playoffs, and how the team grew throughout the year. We also get into his individual season, training plans for the summer, the famous NHL summer skate, and which Sens players could be heading to the World Championships.
Plus: As a viewer, the NHL playoff series that's impressed him
Batherson’s legendary hockey mullet back in the day
What young Drake would think about becoming a 30-goal scorer...
Ullmark Needs A Platoon Situation, Tkachuk Needs To See Team Progress Next Season
In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, we discuss why Brady Tkachuk’s long-term outlook in Ottawa may come down to whether the Sens can take a serious step forward next season.We also tackle whether the Senators need to address their goaltending situation heading into next year. Linus Ullmark is obviously a goalie at his best if he's in a platoon situation.Plus, should Travis Green have been a finalist for the Jack Adams Award? After guiding Ottawa through a strong finish under tough circumstances, there’s a case to be made.And in Toro...
An Honest Look at Brady Tkachuk's NHL Future
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In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, we dive into the biggest offseason storyline: Brady Tkachuk and his future in Ottawa.
Following his final media availability, Tkachuk addressed the constant speculation about whether he wants to stay with the Ottawa Senators or eventually move on and it’s clear the noise is starting to wear on him.
So yeah… Brady probably won’...
Senators Gone in Four: Time For Changes? Or Stand Pat?
The Ottawa Senators’ playoff run is over, swept away in four games by the Carolina Hurricanes. What went wrong, and is it time for changes?
We discuss the end of the Senators’ playoff run just one week after it started, as Ottawa is eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs. The Hurricanes showed exactly why they’re a top seed, while the Senators struggled to generate offense, capitalize on the power play, and find timely scoring.
In this episode of Sens Nation, we break down what happened in the series, key turning points, and wh...
Back Home Down 0-2… Must-Win Time for the Senators
The Senators are heading home down 0-2 in their first-round series against the Carolina Hurricanes — but this series might not be telling the full story.
In this episode of the Sens Nation Podcast, we break down why Game 2 actually gave us some reason for optimism, despite the result. From controversial calls in overtime to a much stronger overall performance, the Sens showed signs they’re not out of this fight just yet.
We also dive into:
Why the Senators looked significantly better in Game 2. The impact of playoff experience (and why it matters now...
All the Playoff Storylines as Senators Prepare to Open Playoffs at Carolina
Sens Nation is back in playoff mode 🔥The Ottawa Senators are heading into Game 1 against the Carolina Hurricanes this Saturday at Carolina, and it’s time to get locked in. All Heart. All In. And the Sens Mile is open.
In this video, we break down:
• What kind of series to expect — high scoring or a defensive battle
• Who might become the villain in this matchup
• Key players to watch, including Tyler Kleven and the goaltending situation
• Thoughts on recent moves like Blake Montgomery signing his entry-level deal
Plus: quick h...
Clinched! The Senators are in the Playoffs
With their furious end-of-season playoff charge, the Senators were rewarded on the weekend with a playoff spot. They'll face Carolina in round one, though that was made official shortly after our recording. We discuss Brady Tkachuk's brief vision loss during the game against the Islanders on Saturday. We discuss whether Jake Sanderson and Shane Pinto should be up for awards, where Carter Yakemchuk fits among NHL prospects, and how the Sens should handle their roster in their final vs the Leafs
Talking Senators and The Masters With Former PGA Tour Player and Past Sens Ambassador Brad Fritsch
We welcome former PGA Tour player and past Senators ambassador Brad Fritsch to the show.The Senators are down to their final four games of the regular season, and the playoff push is very real. We break down where things stand, what needs to happen, and how confident we are that this group can get over the line.Then, we switch gears to golf as Brad shares his thoughts on the Masters, what makes Augusta National so special, and what it’s like to play one of the most iconic courses in the world. Plus, a great story about te...
Stützle’s INSANE Goal Leads Senators Past Hurricanes in Must-Win Game
The Ottawa Senators pick up a massive 6-3 win over the Carolina Hurricanes in one of their most entertaining games of the season, and Tim Stützle may have scored the goal of the year.In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy break down everything from a huge night at Canadian Tire Centre, including:
Tim Stützle’s highlight-reel goal and dominant performance
Brady Tkachuk is looking like himself again at a crucial time
Jake Sanderson’s return and impact on the blue line
T...
Can The Senators Shake Off The Meltdown In Florida? Keith Tkachuk Rips The Sens On Brady's Podcast
We discuss the Senators' brutal loss in Florida. After five days of resting, Linus Ullmark gives up five goals in the first period, including one eight seconds into the game. We discuss what happened and try to come up with theories for why it happened. Carter Yakemchuk suffered what looked like a concussion. Brady Tkachuk still looks like he doesn't have his usual energy. We talk about his Dad publicly ripping the Senators on Brady's podcast, the Tkachuks' paid autograph session this week, and the five-game homestand that will make or break the season...
Ullmark Misses Big Game So He Can Rest; Sanderson Ready To Return? Travis Green For Jack Adams?
In this episode, we discuss the Senators losing two straight games at the worst possible time. After James Reimer's surprise start in Tampa, Sens head coach Travis Green said Linus Ullmark needed a rest and wasn't available to start. We check out the latest standings heading into the game in Florida. Is Jake Sanderson ready to play in that one? The Sens sent down Jorian Donovan on Sunday morning. Stephen Halliday should be playing actual games right now, but he's ineligible to return to the AHL. And is Green a Jack Adams Trophy candidate? 👇 Let us know in the com...
Senators Climb Into Playoff Spot… Now Comes the Hard Part
The Senators are back in a playoff position, but the job is far from finished.With the wild card race tightening, the Sens have climbed into a crucial spot in the Eastern Conference standings. But with teams like the Islanders, Red Wings, and Flyers right behind them, every game from here on out is massive. Carter Yakemchuk had an unbelievable debut, but is he ready for this stage? To make the playoffs, he's going to have to be.We also discuss whether Yakemchuk is now here to stay.• Where the Senators sit in the standings right now• How they got...
Senators Captain Brady Tkachuk Flips The Switch
We discuss Brady Tkachuk's huge spike in intensity on Thursday against the Islanders with an opening faceoff fight and a game-winning goal in the final seconds. Did he hear some of the recent criticism from fans and media?
Could it be a turning point? We talk about the standings and playoff chase. We discuss Islanders forward JG Pageau and what the Sens got for him six years ago. And we look at the upcoming game vs the free-falling Leafs.
Senators Take Down The Californians; Another Injury On The Blue Line?
We discuss the Senators' crucial weekend home victories over Anaheim and San Jose, two wins that couldn't have been more different. Linus Ullmark posted back-to-back wins. We discuss how things look on the blue line with Jake Sanderson and Nick Jensen, now both out. Drake Batherson has had some good fortune around the net in the past few games; his last 4 goals were almost unintentional. With the Sharks in town, we revisit the Fabian Zetterlund deal one year later. And Radko Gudas didn't play against the Sens on Saturday. We talk about his suspension and the Leafs' lack of...
Can Senators Survive Sanderson Injury? Sens Lose To The Habs And Their AHL Goalie
In this episode, we discuss the 3-2 loss to Montreal; Impact of Jake Sanderson's injury; Tim Stutzle's performance and potential superstar status; Playoff matchup considerations and strategies; Player evaluation and team prospects
00:00 Senators' Loss to Habs
01:21 Analyzing the Playoff Chase and Points Gap
02:18 Game Details: Goals, Rebounds, and Defensive Lapses
03:36 Jacob Fowler’s Standout Performance as a Rookie
05:18 Chabot's Role and Performance After Sanderson's Injury
07:15 Winning Goal on Ullmark and Defensive Breakdown
09:17 Chances, Rebounds, and Key Saves in the Game
10:54 Batherson’s Strange Goal...
Senators Acquire Foegele at the Trade Deadline, Bid Farewell to Perron
The Senators tweaked their roster at the trade deadline, acquiring defensive forward Warren Foegele from LA and hoping he can get back to his 24-goal form from last season. Meanwhile, the Sens said goodbye to David Perron. Stephen Halliday wasn't traded, but now the Senators have too many forwards, so is he the odd man out or will it be someone else? We also look at Tim Stutzle's recent performance,s the win in Calgary and the important schedule ahead. The roster is set! They're playing well, but do they have enough race track remaining?
Buyers or Sellers? Senators Lose Ground After Collapse At Edmonton
After two periods, the Senators seemed to have a W wrapped up in Edmonton, but squandered a crucial point, giving up three straight goals. We get into what went wrong and what they might do, if anything, before Friday's trade deadline.
Senators Crush Leafs 5-2 in Toronto
The Ottawa Senators got back on the winning track in Toronto on Saturday night, crushing the Maple Leafs 5–2 in a game that was not as close as the score would appear.
Drake Batherson and Dylan Cozens each scored twice for the Senators, who moved to within five points of the Boston Bruins for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. We discuss the sheer dominaton of the game, the mini line brawl, the weird offside challenge and more.
With Trade Deadline Looming, Senators Fall To Detroit and Lose Ground In Playoff Chase
Thanks to our title sponsor, https://jimkeayford.com, along with Midas Ottawa at https://Midas.ca
In this one, we discuss the Sens' return to action, a 2-1 overtime loss to Detroit. That drops the Sens 7 points out with the trade deadline next Friday. Team USA Olympians keep the momentum going, Brady Tkachuk takes a controversial hit, and a full defensive breakdown in overtime. Arthur Kaliyev is cleared of violating any league policies. And the Sens begin a five game road trip.
Gold Medal Heartbreak For Canada - What Went Wrong?
In this episode, as we close the book on Olympic hockey talk, we dissect everything about Canada's 2-1 loss to the United States in the gold medal game. We get into all the controversial moments, the missed opportunities and what it means for Senators stars Brady Tkachuk and Jake Sanderson.
Canada Faces USA For Olympic Hockey Gold (Twice); Senators Return To Practice
After a pair of close calls, Canada will face the USA for gold on Sunday morning. We discuss their path to get here, hoping it goes better than the ladies final. If it doesn't, well, the bars are open, serving booze as early as 6 amCanada overcomes a 2-0 deficit to beat Finland, which is annoyed by a late high sticking call. We get into all the details on that game, plus the wild quarterfinal win over Czechia where Sidney Crosby was hurt. Was that his final Olympic game?Canada's women fell 2-1 to the USA in overtime, after Abby...
Perfect Start For Team Canada; Parayko Would Look Great In Ottawa
Team Canada is off to a strong start at the Winter Olympics and we break down everything Ottawa Senators fans need to know.
In this episode, we talk about former Senator Mark Stone, the one that got away, looking right at home on hockey’s biggest international stage, and just how ridiculous the skill level is in this best-on-best tournament. From Connor McDavid to Nathan MacKinnon and Macklin Celebrini, the talent on display is off the charts, and Jon Cooper may have found something special with his line combinations.
We also dive into the goaltending st...
Hope Check at the Break: Five Games to Decide the Ottawa Senators’ Deadline Plan
In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, the Senators hit the Olympic break on a heater (5 wins in 6), and suddenly the hope meter is back on the table. Steve Warne and “The Coach” Gregg Kennedy break down what’s real, what’s fool’s gold, and why Ottawa’s improved shot suppression has changed the conversation.They debate the brutal late line change vs. Carolina (and who wears it), gush over Tim Stützle’s ridiculous three-zone motor, and ask the big question: with only five games left before the March 6 trade deadline, what should Steve Staios do...
Linus Ullmark's Fantastic Return; Chabot Injured Now? The Big Three Excel
In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, hosts Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy discuss the Senators' recent 4-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils, highlighting the impressive return performance of goaltender Linus Ullmark and the enthusiastic support from Ottawa fans. They get into the contributions of The Big Three: Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, and Jake Sanderson, the team's playoff prospects, and the challenges posed by the competitive Eastern Conference. The conversation also touches on NHL rules after the weird Connor Brown goal almost counted.
Thanks to our great sponsors: https://jimkeayford.com, https...
Nick Cousins' Next Contract? Brady Tkachuk "An Ottawa Lifer?"
We discuss the Senators' impressive two victories this week and tee up the Devils' game Saturday. We get into the goaltending decisions ( we now know Ullmark starts Saturday), Matthew Tkachuk says Brady is an "Ottawa lifer," we think the Sens should re-sign Nick Cousins, but what kind of contract makes sense, some Sens trivia, and a skypoint to our pal, Simmer, and actress Catherine O' Hara.
Senators Shocking Win, Ullmark Returns But Not Ready To Start, Gretzky Turns 65
In this episode, hosts Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy discuss the surprising performance of the Senators against the Vegas Golden Knights, the ongoing goaltending situation, with Linus Ullmark ready be a backup but not start, player injuries, and the impact of fan reactions on player performance, particularly focusing on Brady Tkachuk. They also touch on potential trades, the legacy of Wayne Gretzky at 65, and a light-hearted incident involving William Nylander.Thanks to our great sponsors https://jimkeayford.com, https://celebright.ca, https://midas.com, and https://teamhardingcomfort.com/
Another Collapse in Nashville, Perron Injured, Something Has To Change
The Senators don's seem to have any answers, and patience is wearing thin.In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, hosts Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy take a hard look at what’s gone wrong for the Senators and why the same problems keep resurfacing. From blown leads and shaky penalty killing to questions about maturity, leadership, and accountability, nothing is off the table, including trades.The guys break down recent performances, the impact of injuries, including David Perron’s absence, and what it all means as the trade deadline approaches. Is this a roster issu...
James Reimer Calms the Chaos, Sanderson Insults Merilainen, and Ridly is Rolling
The Senators’ goaltending has struggled all season, but James Reimer has already brought a little calm to the storm.
Reimer stepped up and helped deliver three of a possible four points, including a rock-solid performance in Columbus. It’s still early, but for the first time all season, there’s a (knock on wood) sense of comfort in the crease.
We also dive into Jake Sanderson’s candid comments about Leevi Merilainen, touching on whether it's a problem or not.
Where Merilainen is mentally as he continues to learn, and what his long-term future w...
Hope or Mirage? Senators’ Wins, Ulmark’s Status & Upcoming Rivalry Games
The Ottawa Senators picked up back-to-back wins — but do they actually change anything?In this episode of the Jim Keay Ford Sens Nation Podcast, hosts Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy break down what the Senators’ recent victories really mean, why restoring confidence matters right now just as much as points, and why the upcoming games against division rivals will tell us far more about where this team is headed.🏒 What We Discuss:Why the Senators had to win — even if the opponents weren’t eliteWhether these wins restore belief inside the room — or just delay tough questionsHuge weekend ahead vs. Montreal...