After an impressive win in Vancouver and a disappointing loss in Calgary, the Ottawa Senators finish up their trip through Western Canada with a stop in Edmonton- home of the top team in the Western Conference.
It has been an emotional couple days for the organization and a reminder that there are always more important things than the game of hockey.
In the comments from the players following yesterday’s news, it’s clear they’re excited to have Craig Anderson back with the team. Just as I’m sure Craig will be glad to be around his teammates during a difficult time. You would think that the Senators will get a huge emotional lift from having Anderson back between the pipes.
After tonight’s stop in Edmonton, the Sens return home for three straight against the Hurricanes, Canucks and Sabres.
Not sure about the rest of you but I still haven’t fully adjusted to the idea of the Edmonton Oilers being a good team. I mean, we all knew it was coming eventually and I did predict them to finish in the Wild Card spot this year, but still. This is taking some getting used to.
Connor McDavid may already be the best player in the league and while they paid a steep price to do it, Oilers Management have done a nice job stabilizing their blueline. I don’t think they’ll be at the top of the conference all year but their start has been pretty damn impressive.
No changes expected to the Ottawa line up for this one. That means Thomas Chabot is a healthy scratch again. I would expect him to draw in when the Senators return to the Canadian Tire Centre next week.
Here’s how Guy Boucher will line his team up tonight.
Hoffman-Turris-Pyatt
Dzingel-Brassard-Ryan
Smith-Pageau-Stone
Puempel-Kelly-Neil
Methot-Karlsson
Phaneuf-Ceci
Borowiecki-Wideman
Craig Anderson gets the start in the Ottawa goal. Puck drop is scheduled for just after 9:00 PM.
