**Title: Senators Face Criticism After Benching Jordan Spence**

The Ottawa Senators opened their season against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday, but not all players were on the ice. Defenceman Jordan Spence was a healthy scratch, sparking backlash from fans and analysts alike. This marked the Senators' first game of the season after returning to the playoffs last spring for the first time in eight years.

Coach Travis Green's decision to bench Spence raised eyebrows, especially given the team's aspirations to advance further in the playoffs this year. Spence, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Kings during the NHL draft in June, had expectations of being a key player for Ottawa. Last season, he played 79 games with the Kings, averaging nearly 17 minutes of ice time per game, and recorded four goals and 28 points.

Instead of Spence, the Senators opted for Nikolas Matinpalo to join Donovan Sebrango on the third defensive pairing. This choice has been difficult for Spence, who was looking for a fresh start after his trade. Both he and Steve Staios, the club's president of hockey operations and general manager, likely did not anticipate this outcome when the season began.

Green noted that Spence had not performed at his best during training camp, which may have influenced the decision. In the days leading up to the game, Spence skated on the fourth pairing, indicating he was not in the running for a top spot.

The Senators are facing tough competition, with the Lightning and the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers both known for their physical play. Green's choice to prioritize size in the lineup may have contributed to Spence's absence. The competition for playing time among the team's sixth and seventh defensemen is expected to be fierce as the season progresses.

Adding to the complexity, Nick Jensen made a surprising recovery from hip-replacement surgery and returned to the lineup, taking a spot next to Thomas Chabot. Green praised Jensen's work ethic, stating, "He’s an extremely hard worker and he’s a very focused individual. He loves training and competing."

Tyler Kleven, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury, did not travel with the team to Florida. His absence has allowed Sebrango to step up, as he had a strong training camp and earned his place in the lineup. Sebrango, who was part of the trade that sent Alex DeBrincat to the Detroit Red Wings, has shown significant development since joining the Senators.

Staios acknowledged Sebrango's progress, saying, "He has continued to evolve as a player. His skating has taken another step in the right direction. He’s always been a competitive kid."

As the Senators embark on their 82-game season, the debate over lineup decisions is expected to continue. The outcome of Game 1 may set the tone for the discussions ahead as the team seeks to build on last year's playoff success.