The Ottawa Senators are officially heading back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second year in a row and excitement is already building across the capital. After years of inconsistency, fans say this return to back-to-back postseason appearances feels different, with the team entering the playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the league. “Super excited to watch another year of playoff hockey,” says fan Chris Roberts. Roberts was among dozens of supporters who took part in a fan appreciation skate at the Canadian Tire Centre on Sunday, giving them a chance to step onto the same ice where playoff hockey will soon be played. “Since the Olympic break there, we’ve been crushing it,” Roberts adds. “I think in the playoffs, we’re going to be the same.” The late-season push helped Ottawa secure its spot, winning 15 games since February and overcoming a 10-point deficit in the standings. It’s a turnaround that has many believing this team could make a deep run. “My kids are looking forward to catching a playoff game,” says fan Andrew Yousefpour. “We’re looking forward to that and fingers crossed to build up on last year.” Others say the return of playoff hockey brings a unique energy to the city, something many haven’t felt in years. “Ottawa’s a great town when we’re in the playoffs, it’s a fever for sure,” says Dulce Ferraz. “I got to see it back in 2017. I’m so excited to see it again.” That optimism is already extending beyond the rink. At the Lieutenant’s Pump, owner John Couse says playoff hockey typically delivers a major boost to business. “We’re very excited. Most of our customers are very excited,” he said. “We have a good hockey following at the Pump and I’m sure we’ll have a good turnout. At Manor Lounge, staff are also preparing for what they hope will be another busy playoff stretch. “We want to pack it in,” says assistant general manager Seth Pelletier. “Last year, we had a lot of energy, sold out venue for these games and we’re excited to do it again.” The Stanley Cup Playoffs are set to begin on April 18, with tickets expected to go on sale this week. It is still to be determined who the Senators will face in the first round.
