Mr. Anderson Perfect at SBP

There may not be much on the line right now but you have to enjoy watching Ottawa Senators hockey these days.

This is a group of guys playing for each other. Obviously they aren’t icing the most talented line up but they are showing exactly what’s possible when everyone is on the same page. Every single player is buying into the system right now and they are getting big saves at key times.

Playing their third game in four nights against one of the NHL’s best teams, this seemed like a recipe for a let down game.  Instead the Sens stuck to the game plan and were able to control the Capitals offensive attack. Of course this game could have been out of hand if not for the man between the pipes for the home side.

Craig Anderson continued to play lights out for the Senators, making a number of highlight reel stops including diving saves on Brooks Laich and Alex Semin. He is in a zone right now is making the game look so easy. Tonight was his second shutout in an Ottawa uniform.

The Sens broke the ice on Colin Greening’s fourth of the season. The goal was reviewed for nearly five minutes but there was no replay that provided conclusive evidence that would allow officials to overturn the call on the ice. Jason Spezza took over the team scoring lead on the play.

Erik Condra beat Varlamov low along the ice early in the third and gave the Sens a 2-0 lead. That was more than enough for Anderson on this night.

With the win, the Sens are now just one point back of the Panthers for 27th.

Close tonight with a quick AHL update. It has been an up and down year for Sens prospect Robin Lehner but tonight he posted his third pro shutout in a 31 save performance for Binghamton in what was a big win for the Sens minor league affiliate.

Here is how the bottom five look after tonight’s action.