Chabot’s Impact: More Than Just Points

Senators coach Travis Green didn’t mince words about the team’s struggles in Chabot’s absence. “I’m not going to sit here and say we don’t miss (Chabot),” he stated last week. That sentiment proved accurate, as Ottawa went 7-8-0 without their dynamic defenseman, a stark contrast to their 11-5-4 record with him in the lineup.

Chabot’s value extends beyond traditional statistics. His elite puck-moving skills and ability to initiate breakouts from the defensive zone are crucial for a Senators blueline that, outside of Jake Sanderson, has lacked consistent offensive contributions from the back end. Before Sanderson’s emergence, Chabot was often overextended as the team’s primary offensive threat from the blue line. Now, he thrives in a second-pairing role, allowing him to maximize his strengths without the burden of excessive minutes.

Defensive Transformation Under Green

Historically, defensive consistency has been an area for improvement in Chabot’s game. However, under Green’s guidance, he’s demonstrated a noticeable commitment to defensive responsibility. This season, Chabot ranks 210th out of 747 skaters with 2.47 expected goals allowed while on the ice at five-on-five – a significant improvement.

“What’s probably been the most impressive thing with Chabot is he’s committed to defending, the last year and a half,” Green explained. “He’s such a gifted skater that it was easy for him just to play on the move. And now, there are certain moments in the game where you have to come back and just stop and play defence. And he’s a strong guy. He’s not the thickest guy, but he’s strong, and he’s able to box up when he puts his mind to it and be strong on the puck.”

Statistical Resurgence and Line Chemistry

Chabot’s impact is reflected in the team’s overall performance. In his first seven seasons combined, he was a minus-76. However, over the last two seasons, he’s a combined plus-24. This dramatic shift highlights his improved two-way play and contribution to positive results.

Offensively, Chabot’s return has unlocked the Senators’ potential, particularly at five-on-five. During a stretch from December 4-15 without Chabot, Ottawa was held scoreless in four of five games at even strength. Since his return, they’ve scored eight five-on-five goals in just two games, with Chabot directly involved in four of them.

This season, the Senators score at a rate of 3.87 goals per 60 minutes when Chabot is on the ice, the highest rate of any player on the team. His offensive creativity was on full display against Chicago, setting up Brady Tkachuk for a goal with a skillful puck carry and pass.

The Chabot-Spence Pairing: A Promising Combination

Chabot’s return has also allowed for a more balanced defensive pairing structure. The pairing of Chabot and Jordan Spence has quickly become a potent force. Before Chabot’s injury, the duo showed promise in limited action, and that success has continued. This season, they boast an expected goals share of 58% and have outscored opponents 6-0 at five-on-five. Could this be Ottawa’s second pairing of the future?

Meanwhile, Sanderson and Artem Zub continue to form a dominant defensive duo, boasting the lowest expected goals rate of any pairing in the league.

What does Chabot’s resurgence mean for the Senators’ playoff aspirations? And how will the team continue to build on this momentum as the season progresses?

Adams’ Apples: Notes from the Ottawa Locker Room

Sanderson’s Caffeine Kick

To combat fatigue during Chabot’s absence, Jake Sanderson adopted a new pre-game ritual: drinking coffee. Specifically, an iced brown sugar, oat-milk shaken espresso from Starbucks, courtesy of teammate Michael Amadio. “I kind of just wanted to wait as long as I could to not drink (coffee),” Sanderson admitted. “I felt like I was a morning person. But I think, in the season, it can be a grind sometimes.”

Stutzle’s Stellar Streak

Tim Stutzle is currently on a seven-game point streak, racking up 14 points in that span. His offensive prowess is complemented by improved defensive play, including three short-handed breakaways in his last two games. After the win in Boston, Stutzle acknowledged past perceptions of him as a perimeter player, stating, “earlier on in my career, I was told I play on the outside a lot.” His goal against Boston demonstrated a newfound willingness to battle for position and finish plays.

Since 2024-25, Stutzle ranks fifth in wins above replacement, trailing only elite talents like Leon Draisaitl, Connor McDavid, Thomas Harley, and David Pastrnak.

Zetterlund’s Zest

Fabian Zetterlund is experiencing a breakout season, scoring eight goals in his last 16 games after netting just one in his first 17. His two-goal performance against Boston showcased his scoring touch and infectious enthusiasm. “I don’t know what to say. When the puck goes in, it’s easier to play,” Zetterlund shared.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thomas Chabot