A struggling defense corps has seen an unprecedented turnover this season, with ten different defensemen already called up to shore up the blueline. The team’s latest reinforcement, a veteran with elite defensive experience, arrives as a potential stabilizing force after a coaching extension provided continuity behind the bench. His return could ease the pressure on a roster stretched thin by frequent roster changes and injuries. Fans and analysts will watch closely to see if his presence helps solidify a unit that has struggled with depth and consistency.

Whenever he returns, Sanderson will be a huge boost to a Senators blueline that has already used 10 different defencemen this year. Sanderson credited recently-extended assistant coach Nolan ...