FIVE QUICK THOUGHTS
-Never in doubt, really. Okay, I’d be lying if my mind didn’t go to some dark places after Brady Tkachuk missed that open net and I was forced to consider the possibility that the Senators could blow a three-goal lead in the third period on home ice. Thankfully, as a functioning NHL hockey team, they were able to close it out. In a year where there have been plenty of low points, these regular wins over the likes of the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs are making this weirdo made-up season all worth while.
-It’s the little things. The other night against the Edmonton Oilers, Joey Daccord skated out from his crease to meet his teammates at the bench after a goal. And the during the anthem before last night’s game, it was interesting to see Joey Daccord lined up on the blueline with the rest of the starting lineup. There is a certain…something to Joey Daccord that is hard to describe but refreshing to see. He played well last night and he’s had his moments this season but it’s more than just his play that’s making him a fan favourite. He’s just one of those guys you can’t help but cheer for. And you get the sense his teammates love playing in front of him. His post-game interview was an all-timer.
-At least once or twice a game, he does something that makes you stop in your tracks. A moment you have to rewind and watch a couple times to make sure you fully appreciate what just happened. Tim Stützle is a 19-year old playing in the National Hockey League. The youngest player in the league in fact. And a couple times a night, he’s making plays that nobody else can. That pass to Drake Batherson was…well I don’t know what it was. But what I know is it’s not a play I am used to seeing an Ottawa Senator make. The subtle little plays he made to create that space in the first place and then the backhand toe drag to open up the passing lane…I mean…that is high end stuff. I could and probably will watch this all day.
-Pierre Dorion is going to have his hands full this off-season. Not only does he have to find a way to lock up the team’s future Captain in Brady Tkachuk but Drake Batherson is also up for a new deal. Both guys are restricted free agents, which gives the Senators a bit of wiggle room but those are going to be tricky negotiations. Based on what we have seen from Batherson this year, this might be a good time for Ottawa to make a long-term gamble. It feels like he may just be scratching the surface of his offensive potential and with his work ethic, he’s only going to get better. Drake Batherson and Brady Tkachuk are now tied for the team lead in goals (11) and points (21).
-Speaking of difficult decisions facing Pierre Dorion, at some time in the not too distant future, the Sens GM is going to need to find out what he can get for Mike Reilly. While he has occasionally drawn the ire of Sens fans, Reilly has quietly put together a good year and as a UFA-to-be, he might be a fit on a playoff bound team. The Trade Deadline has been set for April 12th this year but with quarantine protocols, it would not be surprising to see playoff-bound teams try to get an early start on things. Dorion is certainly going to get some calls on Reilly.
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