Much like last year, California was good to the Ottawa Senators.
Now of course it didn’t start off great with a late collapse against the Anaheim Ducks but the Sens rallied in Los Angeles and San Jose and now head back to the East Coast feeling pretty good about themselves. And while neither of those games were perfect, they do give the team something to build on.
And it’s a good thing too because it’s going to be a busy few days for the Senators as they play three games in the next four days. Up first- a Thursday night showdown with the always-exciting New Jersey Devils in the always lively swamp.
We talk about it every time these two teams meet but unlike any other, the New Jersey Devils seem to bring out the worst in the Ottawa Senators. And not so much in the quality of their play but rather the overall entertainment value. I really thought the Devils would turn over a new leaf once Lou Lamoriello left but that really hasn’t been the case.
This New Jersey team is still in the mix for a playoff spot but nobody sucks the fun out of hockey quite like the Devils. Maybe tonight will be different?
Lots of unknown for the Senators heading into this one. Just an optional morning skate too so we may have to wait until game time to know exactly how Dave Cameron plans to line up his team although it seems like the Sens could be without three key players in Turris, Hoffman and Methot.
Hoffman did participate in the optional skate and is officially considered a game time decision. In speaking with the media he did mention still having some headaches after the collision with a goal post in San Jose so probably best to keep him out.
Matt Puempel was recalled from Binghamton and to make room on the roster, Freddy Claesson was returned to Binghamton, at least for now. And with Claesson and Methot out, that means Jared Cowen gets another shot.
Here’s a best guess at the Ottawa line up.
Michalek-Zibanejad-Ryan
Prince-Smith-Stone
Chiasson-Pageau-Lazar
Puempel-McCormick-Neil
Borowiecki-Karlsson
Wiercioch-Ceci
Cowen-Wideman
Craig Anderson gets the start for Ottawa. Puck drop is scheduled for just after 7:00 PM.
