Senators expect Tkachuk to be ready for playoffs

The Ottawa Senators opted to rest captain Brady Tkachuk for Sunday's clash with the New Jersey Devils, but head coach Travis Green expects the forward to return when the playoffs start next week, according to Postmedia's Bruce Garrioch.

Tkachuk exited Saturday's win over the New York Islanders with an undisclosed issue. After the game, Green said that Tkachuk "wasn't feeling well."

Ottawa also held out Tim Stutzle, Thomas Chabot, and Jake Sanderson on Sunday after clinching a playoff spot. The Senators' postseason schedule and Round 1 opponent have yet to be determined, with the playoffs set to begin April 18.

Tkachuk has recorded 59 points in 60 games this season. He missed 20 contests early in the campaign after thumb surgery.