It’s strange to label a game a must-win in early February but Friday night’s tilt with the Islanders has that feel to it.
The Ottawa Senators have dropped four straight games and have watched while the teams behind them continue to close the gap. Add to that the fact that the Sens have played more games than anyone around them and you can see why two points on Friday is huge.
After practice this morning, Paul MacLean indicated he will go with Craig Anderson against the Isles tomorrow. After a rough night in Boston, it's important for MacLean to back to his number one.
Another update from practice this morning as Chris Phillips was back on the ice.
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The NHL Trade Deadline is now just a few weeks away and the Sens continue to cling to a playoff spot in the East. Based on what I’m hearing right now, I do not expect the Senators to be active leading up to the deadline. They have the cap space to make a move but still appear reluctant to take on salary.
With that said, the Senators have been connected to a few of the players believed to be on the market leading up to the deadline. If they do make a move, a top six forward is at the top of their wish list.
Here are five names floating around the rumour mill…
Ales Hemsky
The high risk/high reward option on the list. At his best, Hemsky is a dynamic forward that can contribute to any team’s top six and can take a regular shift on the power play. At his worst he’s an injury and turnover prone forward that would do little to help the Sens. Hemsky is in the final year of his contract and will be a UFA at season’s end. The Oilers will be looking for defenceman in return.
Brenden Morrow
My personal favourite on this list. Exactly the type of player the Sens need in the top six but at what cost? If the Starts decide to move their Captain (and that is a huge if), they will be looking for a premium return. Morrow has one more year on his deal at $4.1 mil.
Vinny Prospal
Of the five guys listed here, you would think Prospal is the most affordable option. Prospal has 31 points on a bad Columbus team and is in the last year of his contract. I would expect the Sens will be one of a few teams calling the Jackets about the 36 year old left winger
Danny Briere
For many, this will be the most surprising name on the list. I know I was baffled when it was first suggested to me. I know very little in the way of details but I can say that at some point, the Sens were rumoured to have an interest in Briere. Would assume there would have to be a big contract going the other way in that scenario. I really don't think this is a realistic option but it does make for interesting discussion
Tuomo Ruutu
By all accounts, Ruutu could be the first big name player on the move leading up to the deadline, perhaps as early as this weekend. The Sens will make a call on Ruutu but if the asking price is as high as some are speculating (a 1st and a prospect), the Sens would be wise to steer clear.
What do you think Sens fans? Do any of the names on this list grab your interest? Are there any players missing from this list that you think could help the Senators this year or beyond?
