Halliday Steps In: A New Opportunity for the Sens
So, there’s been a bit of buzz around the Ottawa Senators today, and it’s all centred on Stephen Halliday finally getting his moment. After some steady growth in Belleville, Halliday has been recalled and is set to make his NHL debut in Anaheim, sliding onto the Sens’ fourth line alongside Nick Cousins and Scott Hodgson. It’s one of those milestones that fans love to see—a young player who’s been grinding away in the AHL now being given a real shot on the big stage.
What makes this even more interesting is how quietly effective Halliday has been in Belleville. He’s been leading the team in scoring this season with one goal and 16 points in just 15 games. That playmaking touch has always been part of his game, going back to his two seasons at Ohio State University, where he put up an impressive 77 points in 78 games. After turning pro in 2024, he continued to develop into a reliable offensive driver, reaching 20 goals and 72 points across 96 AHL games. And now, after all that time and work, his NHL debut is finally here.
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The recall wasn’t just about filling a spot—it happened because Ottawa is dealing with injuries to key players, including Brady Tkachuk and Thomas Chabot, both on injured reserve. With the team starting a seven-game Western Conference road trip, added depth became essential, and Halliday’s consistent production made him an obvious choice. The coaching staff is hoping his vision and playmaking can help boost the bottom six during this long stretch away from home.
Lassi Thomson was also recalled alongside Halliday. Thomson has been a steady two-way defender for Belleville this season, with three goals and four points in 15 games. A former first-round pick from 2019, he’s already had some NHL experience—five assists in 18 games—and nearly 100 points in the AHL. His presence gives Ottawa some needed flexibility on the blue line as the team navigates this road trip.
What’s exciting about Halliday’s debut tonight is that it feels earned. His progression has been steady, his production has been reliable, and the Sens clearly believe he can bring something useful to the lineup. Whether it’s creating plays from the boards, supporting in transition, or just bringing fresh energy to a late-night game on the West Coast, he’s stepping into a moment he’s worked a long time for.
So as the Sens hit the ice in Anaheim, all eyes will be on Stephen Halliday—finally getting the chance to show what he can do at the NHL level.
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