Senators' Drake Batherson Out Long Term

Ottawa Senators head coach D.J. Smith told reporters on Tuesday night that Drake Batherson will be out long term. This is due to the dirty hit he took from Buffalo Sabres goalie Aaron Dell.

Post-game comments from #Sens head coach D.J. Smith, including updates on Drake Batherson and Dylan Gambrell, after tonight's win over Buffalo. #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/JbhTin4BvU
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) January 26, 2022

When looking at the play, it's pretty clear that there was no reason for Dell to hit Batherson. The 23-year-old forward did not have the puck and understandably didn't expect that to occur - let alone from an opposing goalie. Given the fact that it was such a reckless play and an injury was sustained from it, one has to wonder if Dell will receive a suspension of some kind.

Goalie Aaron Dell injures Drake Batherson pic.twitter.com/VxL6uxv7Y8
— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) January 26, 2022

It's very hard not to feel bad for Batherson. Not only is he injured, but he also now will have to miss his first-ever All-Star game. It's been an excellent year for him, as he has 13 goals and 34 points in just 31 contests. With that, he already matched his production from last season, but in 25 fewer games. However, now his fantastic campaign has to be put on pause.

Here's to hoping Batherson's injury turns out to be less severe than Smith believes.