The Ottawa Senators have faced a significant setback with the injury of their top-pairing defenseman, Artem Zub, who was recently placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). Zub suffered a fractured foot during a game against the Vancouver Canucks, further complicating his already challenging season after a previous concussion earlier in the year. As one of the Senators’ most dependable defenders, Zub’s absence raises important questions for both his future with the team and the Senators’ defensive strategy moving forward.
This injury comes at a pivotal time for the Senators, who are actively exploring trade options to reinforce their defense while Zub recovers. With Zub’s $4.6 million cap hit and an uncertain recovery timeline, the team is navigating a challenging situation that could have lasting effects on their season. Let’s dive deeper into Artem Zub’s current status, his contract, and what the Senators’ options might be as they cope with his injury.
Summary of Artem Zub’s Career
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Artem Zub |
| Born | October 3, 1995, Khabarovsk, Russia |
| Position | Defenseman |
| NHL Team | Ottawa Senators |
| Contract | 4-year extension, $4.6 million AAV |
| Injury (2024) | Fractured foot, placed on LTIR |
| NHL Career Stats | 11 goals, 29 assists in 142 games |
| International | Gold medal at 2018 Winter Olympics |
Key Takeaways
- Artem Zub, the Ottawa Senators’ key defenseman, is out with a fractured foot and has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR).
- Zub’s absence has prompted the Senators to explore potential trades to strengthen their defense.
- Zub signed a four-year contract extension in 2022, worth $4.6 million annually, making him a central figure for the team.
- His injury comes on the heels of a prior concussion earlier this season.
- The Senators are adjusting their defensive pairings in Zub’s absence, with players like Donovan Sebrango potentially getting called up to fill the gap.
Artem Zub’s Injury – What Happened?
Artem Zub’s injury occurred during a game against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday night, where he blocked several shots. Unfortunately, one of those shots resulted in a fracture to his foot. Zub had been playing nearly 22 minutes in the game and had been performing solidly before the injury occurred. The 29-year-old defenseman was placed on LTIR on Tuesday, which officially means that he will miss a significant portion of the season. LTIR placement requires players to miss a minimum of 10 games or 24 days, but it could be much longer, depending on the healing process.
This is a tough blow for the Ottawa Senators, as Zub has been a key defensive asset for the team since he joined in 2020. His ability to block shots and contribute defensively has made him a vital part of the team’s defensive core. This injury adds to the challenges the Senators have already faced this season, as earlier in the year, Zub was sidelined due to a concussion that kept him out for several games.
Artem Zub’s Contract – What Does His Deal Mean for the Senators?
Artem Zub signed a four-year contract extension with the Ottawa Senators in December 2022. The contract has an average annual value of $4.6 million, effective from July 1, 2023. The deal also includes a no-trade clause for 10 teams, which gives Zub some control over his future if the team decides to trade him.
This contract places Zub in a central position within the Senators’ plans for the coming years, as he is expected to be a key contributor to the team’s defense for the foreseeable future. However, with his injury now adding an uncertain element to his season, the Senators are also weighing their options. Zub’s cap hit, while significant, also offers the Senators some flexibility to explore potential trades to acquire another defenseman, especially with Zub’s absence creating an immediate need for depth on the blue line.
Ottawa Senators’ Artem Zub – A Key Piece of the Defense
Zub has long been regarded as one of the Ottawa Senators’ most reliable defensemen. Since joining the team, he has been known for his steady defensive play, ability to block shots, and solid puck movement. While not a major offensive threat, Zub’s defensive contributions have made him an essential part of Ottawa’s lineup. He has also earned recognition internationally, representing Russia in the 2018 Winter Olympics and contributing to his team’s success at the World Championships.
In the 2024-25 season, Zub has played in 11 games, recording 2 assists but no goals. Over the course of his career with the Senators, he has totaled 11 goals and 29 assists in 142 games. Although Zub is not known for scoring, his impact on the ice is undeniable, and his absence leaves a noticeable void in the team’s defensive corps.
What Does Artem Zub’s Injury Mean for the Senators?
With Zub’s injury leaving a gap in the Senators’ lineup, the team is actively seeking reinforcements. The Senators have been involved in trade talks with other teams, particularly looking for a defenseman to help fill the void left by Zub’s absence. Sources indicate that Ottawa has expressed interest in players like New York Rangers’ Jacob Trouba and Columbus Blue Jackets’ David Jiricek. These potential targets could provide much-needed depth to the Senators’ defense.
In the meantime, the Senators have called up defenseman Donovan Sebrango from the Belleville Senators. Sebrango, a 22-year-old Ottawa native, has been playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) this season, where he has posted 2 goals and 6 points in 14 games. Sebrango is expected to be the team’s seventh defenseman for now, but he could potentially make his NHL debut in the coming weeks as the team navigates Zub’s absence.
Artem Zub Scouting Report – What Makes Him Stand Out?
Artem Zub is highly regarded for his strong defensive skills, ability to block shots, and his composure on the ice. He is a player who rarely gets caught out of position and has a knack for breaking up opposing offensive plays. While his offensive output is modest, Zub’s primary role is to be a reliable defender who can match up against the opposing team’s best players.
Scouts have noted that Zub’s quiet yet effective style of play often goes underappreciated, but his consistency and leadership in the defensive zone have been crucial for Ottawa. When healthy, he is considered one of the team’s top pairings, often playing against the opposition’s top forwards.
FAQs
What happened to Artem Zub?
Artem Zub suffered a fractured foot during a game against the Vancouver Canucks in November 2024. He has been placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), which means he will be out for an extended period.
How long will Artem Zub be out?
The exact timeline for Zub’s recovery is unclear, but players placed on LTIR are expected to miss at least 10 games and 24 days. Zub could potentially be sidelined for up to two months, depending on his recovery.
What is Artem Zub’s contract situation?
Artem Zub signed a four-year contract extension with the Ottawa Senators in December 2022. The contract has an average annual value (AAV) of $4.6 million and includes a no-trade clause for 10 teams.
How does Zub’s injury affect the Senators?
Zub’s injury leaves a gap in the Senators’ defensive lineup, prompting the team to explore trade options and call up AHL defenseman Donovan Sebrango. The Senators are seeking reinforcements to maintain their defensive strength during Zub’s absence.
Has Artem Zub had any other injuries?
Earlier in the 2024-25 season, Artem Zub also suffered a concussion that kept him out for several games. His current foot injury has compounded his injury challenges for the season.