After three consecutive impressive victories to open the season, the Ottawa Senators get set for their toughest test of the season tonight in Tampa Bay.
Not only is Ottawa playing a second game in as many nights but Tampa’s roster features the likes of Steven Stamkos, Martin St. Louis and Vinny Lecavalier. The Senators will have to be sharp if they hope to stretch their winning streak to four games to start the 2013 season.
Tampa Bay has started the season strong winning two of three, including a 4-1 victory over the Hurricanes on Tuesday night. Martin St. Louis is leading the way for the Bolts, with 5 points through the team’s first three games.
Paul MacLean has gone with the exact same line up through the first three games but will shuffle the deck for the first time this year in Tampa.
Ben Bishop is expected to make the start in the Ottawa goal.
While Anderson has been lights out so far this year, it’s important for Bishop to get some games in for a couple reasons. Anderson needs to stay fresh and if the Sens do decide they want to deal Bishop, he needs to be showcased a little bit. Either way, a great opportunity for Bishop to prove himself tonight.
It also looks like the Sens will make another change, as Mark Borowiecki is expected to draw in to the Ottawa line up in place of Patrick Wiercioch. There was some talk on Twitter that Daugavins may draw in as well but that is apparently not the case.
Line combinations will be juggled a bit to accomadate the changes. Won't know until game time who plays with who.
Puck drop is scheduled for just after 7:30 PM with all the action available on Sportsnet and the Team 1200.
