Days after the Ottawa Senators’ emotional playoff run came to an end, team owner Michael Andlauer shared an open letter to the fan base, thanking them for their incredible support throughout the season.
The Toronto Maple Leafs eliminated the Senators in the first round of the playoffs. Ottawa fell behind 3-0 in the series but didn’t fold — they fought back to force a Game 6 on home ice. After the final buzzer, fans stayed in their seats and cheered loudly despite the loss, a moment Andlauer said he’ll never forget.
Ottawa loves hockey — Andlauer already knew that. But watching the arena erupt gave him a deeper appreciation. He credited team president Steve Staios — better known around town as “Steady Steve” — and head coach Travis Green for building a team rooted in grit, honesty, and care.
Inside Ottawa Senators Owner Michael Andlauer’s Message to Fans
Andlauer believes the Senators are on the right path, with a locker room full of players who treat each other like family.
A message from owner Michael Andlauer, to you #Sens fans!
📰 Read his full letter: https://t.co/zxbqzJsXu1 pic.twitter.com/6bnmSVDaVT
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators)
His full letter read:
“Sens fans, even though our season ended sooner than we liked, I wanted to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your unwavering and amazing support.
“Your passion was on full display at our home games in the playoffs. I’ve never seen anything like the ovation inside Canadian Tire Centre when we tied Game 6 in the third period. I’m not sure there is another fan base that would have stayed in their seats to cheer on their team after they were eliminated.”
Andlauer’s message was packed with gratitude. He emphasized that the crowd’s reaction in Game 6 — cheering after a playoff exit — meant more to him than any single goal or win.
It gave him a clear picture of the Ottawa fan base: Loyal, passionate, and proud. When he bought the team, he knew hockey mattered in the region. But after this season, he called Ottawa the most underappreciated hockey market in the world. The love and energy from the fans gave him goosebumps and reminded him why the city and the team are so special.
He praised everyone who helped push the franchise forward — from “Steady Steve” for building a foundation, to Travis Green for helping players thrive, and especially the players for turning the dressing room into a tight-knit family.
To Andlauer, this team reflects the values of its fans: honesty, hard work, and genuine care. He said he’s proud to live in Ottawa and values the community’s support. His message couldn’t have been clearer—this was just the beginning, and the best is still to come.
What’s Next for the Senators?
Now that their first playoff appearance since 2017 is in the books, the Senators head into the offseason with optimism and a clearer path forward. Their six-game series loss to the Maple Leafs stings, but it shows how far the team has come — and how high it can climb.
A new chapter is on the horizon. It’s a chance to build on growth, resilience, and belief — with the stability and direction to fuel momentum going forward.
While young talent always moves around, the core of Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, Jake Sanderson, and Josh Norris has what it takes to lead the charge into the future.
The front office is expected to prioritize shoring up the defense, improving goalie depth, and possibly adding a veteran presence to steady the locker room. Team chemistry — both on the ice and between management and players — will be key to keeping the group close and competitive.
Maybe most importantly, the fans have reignited Ottawa’s hockey spirit. Andlauer’s letter made it clear just how special this year was — and how much potential still lies ahead. If the foundation holds firm, 2025 could be the year the Senators go from playoff hopefuls to true contenders.