Senators’ Artem Zub will return to lineup vs. Coyotes

The 28-year-old Zub hasn’t played since Feb. 22.

“It’s a good addition. Helps settle our defence,” Martin said.

Through 44 games this season, Zub has three goals and 17 assists for 20 points while averaging 20:51 of ice time. Now in his fourth NHL season, he’s scored 15 goals and 51 assists for 66 points, averaging 20:16 of ice time in 225 career games.

In December 2022, Zub signed a four-year extension with the Senators worth $18.4 million, giving him a cap hit of $4.6 million. This season is the first year that the deal kicks in.

The Russian defender has been a reliable two-way player for a team that’s underperformed and played well below expectations. Going into Friday night, the Senators are 25-29-3 with 53 points, last in the Atlantic Division and second-last in the entire Eastern Conference.

After Friday’s game, the Senators fly to Philadelphia to take on the Flyers on Saturday night, then travel to California for a three-game road trip against the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks.