Despite peppering Flyers starter Steve Mason with 44 shots on Saturday night, the Sens could only score once, falling by a 2-1 final.
And as a result, the Ottawa Senators head into the last day of the season with their playoff fate still in doubt. And while Ottawa knows regardless of the outcome, they'll start their playoffs later this week, their opponent can incredibly still be one of three teams as they play in the final game of the NHL's regular season.
Here is what's on the line today in Boston…
If the Senators lose in regulation, they'll fall to 8th in the Eastern Conference and open up against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins are absolutely stacked and are going to be a handful for whatever team they line up against. Let's call this the "worst case" scenario.
If the Senators lose in overtime or a shootout, their opponent will be the same Boston Bruins team they play this evening. Again, not a great match up for the Senators who have really had troubles with the Bruins the past few seasons, including losing all four match ups by a single goal this season. The Bruins seem to bring the best out of Ottawa but they just haven't been able to find a way to beat them the past few seasons.
If the Senators win, in regular or extra time, they'll match up against the rival Montreal Canadiens. And while it would be unfortunate to have the games at Scotiabank Place overrun by obnoxious Habs fans, this seems like the best match up for Ottawa on paper.
And Paul MacLean thinks so too.
After talking about wanting to rest some guys this weekend, the Head Coach realizes that last night's loss means the Sens really don't have that luxury anymore. They need to play to win this hockey game. You can expect the Boston Bruins to do the same as it sounds like they'll go with a full line up in game 48.
Will add the line ups when they become available.
- In the event that it does end up being Montreal, it's important that Sens fans get out today and buy your playoff tickets NOW. You know that if it does end up being Montreal in Round 1, their fans will be all over the remaining tickets. So get your hands on them now before they can! In fact, it's the freaking Stanley Cup Playoffs! You should be getting your tickets anyway, no matter who the opponent is! Go to Capital Tickets to buy yours now!
