Get used to hearing this over the next few weeks.
This is another must-win game for the Ottawa Senators.
Another “biggest game of the year”. And that’s sort of the way it’s going to be for the Sens over the next few weeks as they continue their unlikely playoff push in the Eastern Conference.
It’s a must-win for a couple of reason. The first being that despite their improved play recently, the Carolina Hurricanes are a team the Senators should beat. And even though the Hurricanes have given Ottawa fits over the last few years, the Senators know they have to find a way to come away with a couple of points.
At the same time, the Boston Bruins are getting set to host the Buffalo Sabres. You have to assume Boston wins that game.
So basically, the Senators need to win tonight just to keep pace in the East. And if they can take care of business against the Hurricanes, they would set themselves up for another huge showdown with the Bruins on Thursday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. This has all the hallmarks of a “Trap Game” but Dave Cameron and the rest of the Coaching Staff have to make sure that the players don’t take this Hurricane team lightly.
The Senators were on the ice for their morning skate in Raleigh and appear to be going with the exact same line up as the other night against the Flyers. That means Colin GREENing and Zack Smith are healthy scratches up front while Eric Gryba sits out another game on defence. Here’s how Dave Cameron lined up his team this morning.
Hoffman-Zibanejad-Ryan
Michalek-Turris-Stone
Condra-Pageau-Lazar
Puempel-Legwand-Chiasson
Methot-Karlsson
Wiercioch-Ceci
Cowen-Borowiecki
No surprise in goal as Andrew Hammond makes another start for Ottawa. His backup is a bit of a surprise, however. Craig Anderson re-aggravated that hand injury and will not dress for the Senators. Chris Driedger has been recalled and will dress as Hammond’s back up for this one.
Puck drop is scheduled for just after 7:00 PM.
Go. Sens. Go.
