The Ottawa Senators continue their role as playoff spoilers tonight when they visit the Carolina Hurricanes in what has to be described as a must-win game for the home side.
Curtis McElhinney gets the start in goal and recalled defenceman Patrick Wiercioch makes his NHL debut.
The Hurricanes come into tonight’s action as the 9th place team in the Eastern Conference trailing the 8th place Sabres by just three points for the final playoff spot. With the Leafs, Devils and Thrashers all pushing hard behind them, the Canes can’t afford a loss to the league’s 28th ranked team.
Just the one line up change for the Sens tonight as rookie defenceman Patrick Wiercioch makes his first appearance as a Senators. Wiercioch has been much better of late in Bingo and should see some power play time in Gonchar’s absence tonight.
Will post the line combos shortly.
Curtis McElhinney gets the start in goal. The newly signed Craig Anderson is again healthy enough to play but there is no need for the team to rush him. For McElhinney, the recent stretch has been a terrific chance to audition for the back up role next season.
Murray has indicated he will pursue a free agent to fill that role.
Milan Michalek is ahead of schedule but will not play tonight. He is with the team on the road trip though and could play before the Sens return home on Friday night.
For scoreboard watchers here are some games to keep an eye on this evening.
FLA@NYR, NYI@TBL, EDM@NSH, CBJ@COL
