Logan Hensler, the Ottawa Senators' 2025 first-round pick, sees a slight drop to 11th in the 2026 Top 25 Under 25 rankings after a mixed sophomore season with the Wisconsin Badgers. While he showed improvement, elevating his +/- from -13 to +6, his performance at the World Juniors was disappointing, failing to register a point and contributing to a poor team finish. Following a serious injury, which included a ruptured ligament and ACL tear, Hensler is on the mend and expected to return for what may be his final NCAA season, with plenty of potential still in play for his development. Despite a challenging year, his key assets鈥攕kating, hockey IQ, and positioning鈥攔emain intact, underscoring the Senators' initial hopes for him as a two-way defender.

By the Numbers
  • Hensler's +/- improved from -13 last season to +6.
  • He recorded three goals and eight points in 15 games before the World Juniors.
State of Play
  • Returned to the ice in July after surgery for a serious injury.
  • Expected to be in the opening night lineup for his final NCAA season.
What's Next

As Hensler aims for a strong comeback season, a successful third year with Wisconsin will be crucial for his development and for potentially earning a spot with the Belleville Senators at season's end.

Bottom Line

Logan Hensler's journey reflects the ups and downs of development; while injuries and inconsistent performances have slowed his progress, his foundational skills and potential for growth remain key aspects to watch as he looks to regain his form.