Ottawa Senators defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker is facing uncertainty after sustaining a troubling injury during Monday's practice. The incident raised immediate concerns as the 24-year-old fell hard against the boards and was unable to bear weight on his right leg, prompting teammates, including captain Brady Tkachuk, to assist him off the ice.
Brady Tkachuk expressed his worries for Bernard-Docker, acknowledging the difficult situation his teammate faced. "I hope it’s not too bad for JBD because he works so hard and does everything right," Tkachuk said, highlighting Bernard-Docker's work ethic and dedication to the game. After the accident, Tkachuk noted, "There are probably a million thoughts going through his head at the time like this. I just wanted him to let it all out and it sucks. I just want to be there for him." The injury posed significant questions for the Senators, who are already grappling with several key players nursing injuries.
Despite the grim scenario, there has been no official update on Bernard-Docker's condition as of yet. The Senators have been beset by injury woes this season, with others including goaltender Linus Ullmark, David Perron, Travis Hamonic, and Michael Amadio currently on injured reserve. Coach Travis Green voiced his concern: "You worry about your players. Especially with something like this, seeing a guy getting helped off the ice.”
Bernard-Docker, who was drafted 25th overall by the Senators during the 2018 NHL Draft, has played 25 games this season, tallying one goal and three assists, with a plus-2 rating. His absence could be felt heavily as the team battles for playoff positioning.
Looking for wins, the Senators will take the ice against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on January 7, 2025. During their latest outing, Ottawa faced the St. Louis Blues, where they suffered a disappointing 4-0 loss, managing to land just 20 shots on goal without any conversion. This came right after their six-game winning streak which had propelled them back to playoff contention, making their current slump all the more frustrating.
Coming off the disappointing loss, many players on the Senators are feeling the pressure as they cling to the second Wild Card spot. After the Red Wings match, Ottawa hopes to recover with upcoming games against lower-tier opponents, including the Buffalo Sabres, and face some tough divisional matchups against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins. Now tied with the Pittsburgh Penguins for the Wild Card spot, every game counts significantly. A victory against the Red Wings would be key for morale and momentum, especially after losing Ullmark to injury, and having rolled out Leevi Merilainen as the expected starting goalie for the upcoming match.
The Senators have already faced considerable challenges this season but remain hopeful of clinching their playoff opportunities as the January stretch continues. Tkachuk reflected on the weight of these moments, stating the need for unity during times of adversity. Should Bernard-Docker's injury sideline him longer, it would add to the many challenges his team faces moving forward.
With the stakes high and the uncertainties surrounding player health, the Senators must band together and look toward their next games. The support Bernard-Docker’s teammates want to extend is clear; they recognize the mental strain inflicted by such injuries and the potential impact on team dynamics. Tkachuk encapsulated this sentiment with his call to offer support as they head toward this pivotal matchup. The Senators are hoping for the best for Bernard-Docker and for solid performances to keep their playoff hopes alive.