To say Ottawa Senators defenceman Thomas Chabot played through an injury in 2023-24, might be an understatement. He hurt his hand back in late October, and would end up missing a month. Furthermore, Chabot also missed about a month after a leg injury in December. He did end up finish the season playing, but missed time on three different occasions on the season. When he did play, he did so with a bandaged wrist. That is the announcement that Bruce Garrioch reported today. He is expected to be out for up to three months following the decision to pursue surgery. This is wrist injury that has bothered him for up to two years now.
Thomas Chabot Needs Surgery for Lingering Wrist Injury
When Chabot is healthy, and playing up to his potential, he is a top defender. He commands the game, is a minute-muncher, and is an excellent skater. In 2023-24, he had nine goals and 21 assists for 30 points in just 51 games. That is good for a PPG of 0.59, just off of his career mark of 0.60. Moreover, perhaps a by-product of being beat up so much this season, Chabot averaged just 23:03 of ice time. For the 2019-20 through 2021-22 seasons, he was never below 26:00 minutes. If Chabot can come back healthy, and with a big name, right-shot defenceman in 2023-24, look for him to get right back on form.
What Does This Mean for the Senators
This news is a big deal for Sens. Anyone who thought Chabot may have regressed negatively over the past couple seasons, you finally have your reason. Chabot still quarterbacks the top power play when healthy. He has had to accommodate the Senators defensive pairing, and given his production, done pretty well. Considering he had to shift to the right side, or by his lack of a true top-pair type partner, he has been extremely patient. It is time in 2024-25 for Steve Staios to give Chabot the right-hand, top-four guy he deserves. Chabot will be healthy, and the Sens will be ready to make a big push. Let’s make it happen.
Main photo: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
