As the Ottawa Senators went into their final game of the season, fans were almost unanimous in hoping for an Ottawa win that would set up a first round series with the Montreal Canadiens.
But what is it about the match up that Sens fans like? Or is it simply the fact that the alternatives- Boston and Pittsburgh- are just so damn good? Let’s take a look at the tale of the tape heading into this Ottawa/Montreal match up and see if we can figure out exactly why fans in the Nation’s Capital were eager for a shot at the Northeast Champs.
OFFENCE
Goals are overrated…
Advantage Sens.
DEFENCE
Jared Cowen is back from what looked like a season ending injury. Alexei Emelin is not. PK Subban is a Norris Trophy Candidate. Erik Karlsson is a Norris Trophy winner.
Advantage Sens.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Ottawa has the top ranked penalty kill in the NHL. Montreal also often attempts to kill of penalties although is generally not very good at it. Ottawa’s power play, primarily without Erik Karlsson, was ranked 20th this season. Ottawa’s power play with Erik Karlsson is…better.
Advantage Sens.
TOUGHNESS
Brandon Prust is the Habs toughest forward. Zack Smith is not concerned. Chris Neil is tougher than everyone. Ottawa with the edge by a Colby Armstrong Nose…
Advantage Sens.
COACHING
The Ottawa Senators Head Coach is going to win the Jack Adams this season. Montreal’s Coach is not. Can Michel Therrien even grow a mustache? MacLean's look alike was funny. Therrien's was scary.
Advantage Sens.
GOALTENDING
Craig Anderson led the NHL is save percentage (.941) and goals against average (1.69). Carey Price is also a goaltender.
Advantage Sens.
INTANGIBLES
Montreal has won many Stanley Cups as there fans will remind you. Ottawa has also won a bunch but those don’t count apparently. Habs fans like to chant Ole for some reason. Ottawa fans chant for Alfie. Montreal fans boo their team. Ottawa fans boo the Leafs. This is a tough one…
Advantage Sens.
PREDICTION
Sénateurs d'Ottawa in 6 games.
- GAME 1- @Montreal- Thursday, May 2
- GAME 2- @Montreal- Friday, May 3
- GAME 3- @Ottawa- Sunday, May 5
- GAME 4- @Ottawa- Tuesday, May 7
- GAME 5- @Montreal- Thursday, May 9
- GAME 6- @Ottawa- Saturday, May 11
- GAME 7- @Montreal- Sunday, May 12
