The suddenly slumping Ottawa Senators will play their first game at home since January 16 when they host the New York Islanders.
The Sens have dropped four straight, including three out West before the NHL All Star Break. On Tuesday, they let a two goal lead slip away at the hands of the power house Bruins. They’ll be looking to get back on track at SBP.
The Islanders are surging as of late, picking up points in five of their last six, including a 5-3 win over the Hurricanes on Tuesday night. John Tavares has been on an absolute tear as of late, racking up 22 points in 13 games in the month of January, earning him first star of the month honours in the NHL. The Sens will have to find a way to slow him down tonight.
After tonight's tilt, the Sens and Islanders will meet three more times before the season is out, including twice in the month of February.
The Senators have been sliding a bit as of late and need to find a way to have a better start tonight on home ice. The Sens have given up the game’s first goal in eight straight games and are making things extremely difficult by always falling behind. After a couple hard days of practice, expect Paul MacLean’s group to come out flying tonight.
Craig Anderson will make another start in the Ottawa goal. Would not be surprised to see Andy get both games this weekend. Based on the last couple days of practice, here is how the Sens are expected to line up. Will update again after the morning skate.
Condra-Spezza-Michalek
Foligno-Turris-Alfredsson
Greening-Smith-Neil
Daugavins-Konopka-Butler
Kuba-Karlsson
Cowen-Gonchar
Phillips-Carkner
Looking for somewhere to watch the game tonight? Why not join some other SensChirp readers at Local Heroes on Clyde. For just $50 you get a ticket to the game, $15 worth of food and transportation to and from SBP. We’ll also be handing out some prizes before the bus leaves at 6:15 PM.
Call 613 224 3873 to book your spot!
