The Ottawa Senators are set to begin their longest road trip of the season with a significant lineup change as rookie centre Stephen Halliday prepares to make his NHL debut against the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night.
Injury Forces Lineup Shuffle
The Senators will open their seven-game road trip at Honda Center without veteran centre Lars Eller, who was absent from Wednesday's practice session. Coach Travis Green confirmed to reporters that Eller, who is dealing with an undisclosed injury, "most likely won't play tomorrow" against the Ducks.
Eller joins a growing injury list that includes captain Brady Tkachuk, alternate captain Thomas Chabot and winger Olle Lycksell, none of whom made the trip to California. The timing is particularly challenging as Ottawa embarks on their most extensive travel schedule of the season.
Halliday's Opportunity Arrives
With Eller sidelined, 23-year-old Stephen Halliday finds himself in position to make his first NHL appearance. The young centre was called up from Belleville of the AHL on Tuesday along with defenseman Lassi Thomson and skated on a line with Nick Cousins and Hayden Hodgson during practice.
Halliday, selected 104th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, has been productive in the American Hockey League this season, recording one goal and 11 points in 15 games with Belleville. His strong performance in training camp had already put him on the radar for a potential call-up.
Focus on Physical Development
The Ohio State product emphasized that he's been working specifically on adding a more physical element to his game. "I've tried to get a little bit stronger and use my body a little bit more," Halliday said. "I've focused a little bit more on the details that will help me get here."
Coach Green acknowledged Halliday's development, noting he has spoken frequently with Belleville coach David Bell about the young centre's progress. "He's gone down and he's worked on his pace," Green said. "Also, that two-way part of his game and that harder part. There is a good chance we will see him, and it's always exciting when a guy plays his first NHL game."
While winger Ridly Greig, who also missed Monday's practice for maintenance, returned to his regular spot beside Dylan Cozens and Fabian Zetterlund on the second line, Eller's absence creates the opening that could launch Halliday's NHL career in Anaheim.
