Jorian Donovan gets crucial Senators call-up as playoff pressure mounts in Ottawa
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Cimon Asselin
Apr 4, 2026 (10:36)
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Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Jorian Donovan gets another call from Travis Green as the Ottawa Senators lean on youth with 2 games looming this weekend.
Ottawa didn't hesitate. The 21-year-old left-shot defenseman is back up for the second time this spring, and this one carries more weight.
Donovan isn't just a fill-in. He's a 5th-round pick, 136th overall in 2022, and one of the more mobile blue liners in the system.
At 6'2” and 200 pounds, he brings a pro frame already. But his game is built on skating and puck movement, not just size.
He grew up in Calgary and developed in the OHL, splitting time between Hamilton, Brantford, and Saginaw during his junior run.
His breakout came in 2022-23 with 45 points in 55 games, showing clear offensive upside from the back end.
Development meets pressure in Ottawa
This season in Belleville, Donovan has logged 21 points in 59 games, along with a -12 rating while handling regular minutes.
That stat line doesn't jump, but his usage does. He's been leaned on in all situations, including defensive zone starts and penalty kill work.
He already appeared in 2 NHL games, averaging limited minutes and staying mistake-free. No points yet, but no damage either.
That matters right now. Ottawa sits at 88 points in 75 games, stuck in a tight wild card race with no cushion.
Green is clearly looking for stability on the third pair, especially with a back-to-back against Minnesota and Carolina.
Those are two heavy forecheck teams. Breakouts get tested fast, and young defensemen usually get exposed.
But Donovan's calling card is composure. He doesn't force plays, and he moves pucks efficiently under pressure.
If he handles this weekend, he could carve out a short-term role down the stretch.
If he struggles, the leash will be short. That's how it goes in April hockey.
Ottawa isn't experimenting anymore. Every roster move now is tied directly to staying alive in the standings.
And for Donovan, this is more than a recall. It's an audition with real stakes.
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