Ottawa Senators end eight-year playoff drought, secure first wildcard spot in Eastern Conference.

The Ottawa Senators have secured their first playoff berth in eight years, ending their seven-year drought from the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They currently hold the first wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference with a 42-29-6 record, thanks to key players like goaltender Linus Ullmark and forward Tim Stützle. The team's last playoff appearance was in the 2016-17 season. Despite a 5-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Senators clinched their spot due to the Montreal Canadiens' victory over the Detroit Red Wings.