While the Senators are certainly enjoying their escape from the -30 degree temperatures in sunny California, they don’t get much of a break on the ice as they kick off a difficult five game road trip against the Anaheim Ducks.
The Boston Bruins have left the door open for any team interested in taking away their playoff spot. They have struggled badly in their last ten (2-6-2) and the teams behind them are starting to sense an opportunity. The Florida Panthers probably have the best shot but the Senators have been able to hang around and at least give themselves a chance.
Nine points back but with three games in hand and two more head to head games against the Bruins.
It’s possible but only if they can find a way to bank some points during a road trip that looks like their most difficult of the season. Stops in Anaheim, Los Angeles, San Jose, Minnesota and Winnipeg would be gruelling for any team and should be especially challenging for the Senators.
Ottawa’s game has gradually improved under Dave Cameron but the quality of the competition hasn’t been all that high and they’ve been able to play a lot of games on home ice. This road trip includes games against five Western Conference teams, all in the playoff race and a couple of them at least, legitimate Stanley Cup contenders. The Sens will have to be at their absolute best to stay afloat on this five game trip.
No morning skate for the Senators today but with only the one extra forward on the trip, the line up should be pretty straightforward. Colin Greening was called up as insurance and will be a healthy scratch for this one. Although I suspect there’s a chance he gets into the game tomorrow night in Los Angeles. Here’s how Dave Cameron will line his team up against the Ducks
Hoffman-Zibanejad-Ryan
Michalek-Turris-Stone
Condra-Pageau-Lazar
Puempel-Legwand-Chiasson
Methot-Karlsson
Wiercioch-Ceci
Borowiecki-Gryba
Andrew Hammond gets the start in the Ottawa goal. Get those pre-game naps in if you can because puck doesn’t drop on this one until just after 10:00 PM.
