What happened: Jake Sanderson recorded a two-point outing on Wednesday night to help the Ottawa Senators win at home in his return to the active lineup. Following the game, the Senators named Sanderson their Performer of the Game, presented by Otto's BMW.

Why it matters: Immediate offensive production from the blue line steadies Ottawa's defense corps after Sanderson was held out of preseason play on Oct. 8 while resuming skating. His early-season form carries added weight in the 2026-27 regular season as the Senators navigate a leadership transition that put him into September captaincy discussions.

What to watch: Sanderson will look to sustain his two-way pace as Ottawa continues its early 2026-27 regular-season schedule.