Ottawa Senators defenseman Thomas Chabot did not hide his concern after teammate Jake Sanderson exited Game 3 with an injury. The Senators fell 2-1 to the Carolina Hurricanes on April 23, slipping to a 3-0 deficit in the NHL‘s Eastern Conference First Round.
The loss hurt, but Sanderson’s absence hit harder inside the dressing room.
Sanderson left in the second period after a high hit from Taylor Hall at 4:24. The contact knocked off his helmet and drew a minor penalty. He stayed briefly for two shifts but later went down the tunnel after blocking a shot. However, the exit came from the head hit.
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Chabot talked about Sanderson’s injury after the game.
“Not fun,” Chabot said about his reaction. [Timestamp: 3:18] “It’s the biggest piece of our team probably. So, seeing him going down the tunnel, it’s not good. He’s played such big minutes. The way he plays, it’s – like I’ve said earlier this year when we lost him, there’s no other Jake Sanderson.
“So, it’s a big loss for us for sure. And hopefully he’s doing good.”
Chabot, who carries an $8 million cap hit on his eight-year, $64 million deal, now faces a heavier role. Ottawa already missed Artem Zub, Sanderson’s usual partner, due to injury. The blue line looked thin, and Carolina took advantage late in the second period.
Jackson Blake scored the game-winner, while Frederik Andersen made 21 saves. Logan Stankoven also scored, continuing a strong series with Hall and Blake driving offense. Ottawa’s lone goal came from Drake Batherson.
The Senators struggled badly on special teams, going 0-for-5 on the power play. They now sit 0-for-12 in the series, a key reason behind the deficit.
Captain Brady Tkachuk admitted frustration but insisted the group will fight, saying, “We’ve never quit all season … got to step up to the occasion.”
Only four teams in NHL history have erased a 3-0 series hole. Ottawa must attempt that climb without clarity on Sanderson’s status.
Game 4 now becomes a must-win scenario, with pressure rising and depth already stretched.