The first look at Lars Eller in an Ottawa Senators uniform will come a little later than expected.
Team general manager Steve Staios announced Wednesday that the veteran centre underwent a minor abdominal procedure and won’t be ready for the start of camp.
Lars Eller had a minor abdominal procedure. Won't be ready to start camp. #Sens
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) September 17, 2025
Eller, 36, signed a one-year, $1.25 million deal with the Sens on July 1.
A native of Rodovre, Denmark, Eller is set to embark on a 17th NHL season. Originally taken with the 13th overall selection of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Eller has appeared in 1,116 career games with the St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche and Pittsburgh Penguins.
He appeared in 80 games last season, split between the Pens and Caps. He had 10 goals and 12 assists.
For his career, Eller has 188 goals and 136 assists. He was a member of the Caps’ 2018 Stanley Cup-winning squad.
Internationally, Eller has represented Denmark on numerous occasions, including at five IIHF World Championships.
The Senators open their preseason schedule on Sunday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Their regular season is set to begin on Oct. 9 at the Tampa Bay Lightning.
