Ottawa Senators fans have been extremely spoiled this season.
In a season in which the majority of media outlets predicted a last place finish for the rebuilding Sens, Paul MacLean's group continues to surprise. Ottawa charged out to a 4-0 lead last night and held on for a convincing 5-2 win over the slumping Washington Capitals, pushing the team one step closer to playoff spot.
As has been the case so many times this season, it was Erik Karlsson that paced the Sens offensive attack. Karlsson picked up the game's first goal and his 13th of the year, converting a nifty pass from Jason Spezza to give the Sens another early lead.
Then on the second Ottawa goal, it was Karlsson again, finding Milan Michalek with an incredible bank pass that sprung the speedy forward. Michalek made an nifty move through the legs of a hapless Dennis Wideman and beat Vokoun for what had to be one of the nicest goals all year. Michalek's unique celebration made the goal that much more entertaining.
With the Sens up 2-0 and on the power play, a fake slap shot by Karlsson opened up the lane and Karlsson point shot deflected off Michalek and in. Ottawa was in complete control.
In the midst of his offensive clinic, Erik Karlsson notched his 47th assist and set the Sens franchise record for assists by a defenceman, eclipsing the record set by Norm MacIver. With 60 points on the season, Karlsson finds himself in the Top 10 in league scoring, 20 points clear of the next defenceman and just three points back MacIver's record for points by a defenceman.
Fans and media in Ottawa have been talking about Erik Karlsson for the Norris Trophy for the past month or so but last night he finally got some league wide recognition from the TSN Panel. Impossible to exclude him from the conversation at this point.
It was brief, but after last night's win the Senators temporarily pulled even with the Boston Bruins for first in the Northeast. Unfortunately Boston won in St. Louis and regained the two point lead heading into Saturday night's showdown.
Should be a good one!
- Mentioned this on Twitter but will pass it along on here as well. On Friday, March 2, we'll be holding another SensChirp Event at the Local Heroes on Clyde Avenue. For just $60 bucks you get a 300 level ticket to the game against the Chicago Blackhawks, $15 worth of food and transportation to and from the game. Not to mention a chance to mingle with some SensChirp readers. Call 613 224 3873 to book your spot. Space is limited!
- Just received an email from saying that Chris Phillips, Matt Carkner, Peter Regin and Craig Anderson will be signing autographs to help raise money and awareness for this year's CN Bike for CHEO. Attendees are encouraged to make a donation to the CN Bike for CHEO in exchange for an autograph. The event is tonight from 6:30-8:30 PM at the Jim Keay Ford Dealership at 1438 Youville Drive.
- Another item to bring your attention to. Ever found yourself watching a Saturday night Sens game in non-HD and wondered, there has got to be a better way?! Well these guys have the answer. Check out this site and find out how you can let the CBC know we want CBC Ottawa in HD!
