The Ottawa Senators are going to be without one of their most versatile veterans for the time being, as forward David Perron is sidelined with an injury that’s been nagging him for a while. Head coach Travis Green confirmed before Thursday night’s game against the Nashville Predators that Perron’s issue finally reached a point where it had to be addressed.
This isn’t just a minor lineup shuffle - Perron’s absence leaves a noticeable gap. At 37, he’s been a steady presence for Ottawa this season, not just as a locker room leader but as a reliable contributor on the ice.
He’s played in 49 games, tallying 10 goals and 25 points, and has been part of a productive third line alongside Lars Eller and Nick Cousins. That trio had quietly become one of the more dependable units for the Senators, often tasked with stabilizing shifts and providing a mix of experience, grit, and timely offense.
With Perron out, the Senators made a move Thursday morning, calling up center Stephen Halliday from their AHL affiliate in Belleville. Halliday was slotted into the fourth line for the matchup in Nashville - a big moment for the young forward, but also a clear sign of how Ottawa is trying to patch the lineup in the short term.
Perron’s ability to play up and down the lineup, contribute on special teams, and bring a veteran edge has made him a key piece for this team. Losing him, even temporarily, forces the Senators to lean more heavily on their depth - and for a team that’s been searching for consistency all season, that’s no small challenge.
We’ll see how Halliday responds to the opportunity, but there’s no question the Senators will be eager to get Perron back as soon as he’s ready. In a season where every point matters, losing a player who can be counted on in just about every situation is a tough blow.