For the first time in this post-season, the Ottawa Senators have their backs against the wall.
Sure, in the eyes of some of the experts it has been there throughout these playoffs, but this time it’s there for real. Lose and their season is done. Win and they force a deciding Game 7 back in Pittsburgh on Thursday night.
Forget the biggest game of the year, this is the biggest game of the decade.
As humbling as Sunday’s loss was, it’s important to remember that the Senators laid a similarly embarrassing rout on the Penguins less than a week ago.
One blowout each way and everything else has been a one goal game. There is an undeniable feeling of frustration that comes with losing a pivotal Game 5 by a touchdown but in the end, it’s just one loss. Regardless of the score, it’s just one loss.
The Penguins found a way to bounce back for Game 4 when it happened to them and now the Senators have to do the same. Reset, reload and come out swinging with your season on the line.
Guy Boucher met with the media and confirmed one line changes as Ryan Dzingel draws back in and Tommy Wingels comes out. The coach also confirmed that Mark Borowiecki and Alex Burrows are both out. Boucher said he’s considering a few different possibilities including using seven defenceman again or putting in one of Colin White or Chris Kelly. Based on the morning skate and Boucher’s press conference comments, it sounds like he’s leaning towards using Colin White but we won’t know for sure until closer to game time.
Hoffman-Turris-Dzingel
MacArthur-Brassard-Ryan
Smith-Pageau-Stone
Stalberg-White/Kelly-Pyatt
Methot-Karlsson
Phaneuf-Ceci
Claesson-Wideman
Craig Anderson will get the start in the Ottawa goal. Puck drop is scheduled for just after 8:00 PM.
If you can, go to the game tonight.
This team has been there for us all Spring and we need to be there for them now.
The last month and a half has featured some of the most entertaining hockey we’ve seen around here in more than ten years and it has rekindled a city’s love with their hockey team. It’s fun to be an Ottawa Senators fan again. And it’s because of this incredibly resilient group. This fan base owes it to the team to be there, be loud and give them a lift in the most important game of the season.
GO SENS GO!!!!
