The Ottawa Senators delivered a statement performance on one of hockey's grandest stages, decisively defeating the New York Rangers 8-4 at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, January 13, 2026.
A First Period for the History Books
Ottawa came out with explosive energy, putting together what players and coaches called their best period of the season. The Senators dominated from the opening puck drop, outshooting the Rangers 14-6 and taking a commanding 4-0 lead into the first intermission. The home crowd's frustration was palpable, booing the Rangers off their own ice.
According to TSN statistician Jon Perlberg, it was the first time in franchise history the Senators have ever scored four goals in a single period at the iconic Madison Square Garden.
Offensive Firepower on Full Display
The Senators' attack was a multi-pronged assault. Captain Brady Tkachuk led the charge with a massive four-point night. He was supported by centre Dylan Cozens and winger Ridly Greig, who each contributed three points, with Greig notching three assists.
The scoring was spread throughout the lineup. Tim Stutzle, Nick Jensen, and Nick Cousins all had multi-point evenings. The goal scorers for Ottawa included David Perron, Drake Batherson, Jake Sanderson, and Thomas Chabot, who rounded out the offensive outburst.
By the end of the second period, the issue was settled. Goals from Chabot and Sanderson extended the lead to 6-0, chasing Rangers goaltender Jonathan Quick, who allowed six goals on just 17 shots. Spencer Martin finished the game in relief for New York.
Crucial Win in the Playoff Chase
This victory was particularly significant for the Senators' fading playoff hopes. Coming off a 2-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks the previous night, it marked only the second time this month Ottawa has strung together consecutive wins.
Goaltender Leevi Merilainen capitalized on the strong team effort in front of him, stopping 22 shots to earn his first road victory of the season, improving his record.
The win kicks off a critical and grueling stretch for the club: 12 games in 23 days before the league breaks for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games on February 5. Beating struggling teams like the Rangers, who held a 5-12-4 home record and sat last in the Eastern Conference, is essential for Ottawa to climb back into contention.
The Senators served notice that their season is not over, proving that in the NHL, fortunes can change in a New York minute.
