After an unexpectedly long 12 hour bus trip down, I have arrived safely in the Big Apple.
Tonight, the Ottawa Senators and the New York Rangers square off in Game 7 of their first round series at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The two best words in all of sports, Game Seven, and on the league's biggest stage at MSG.
I'm currently sitting at the hotel computer here in downtown New York, trying to make good use of my free 30 minutes and get a game day post up for the loyal readers back home.
Hard to explain the sense of excitement, nerves and fear I'm experiencing right now. In a little over six hours I'll be walking in the doors of MSG in my Sens jersey to watch the biggest game of the season. Still not sure it has all sunk in. This morning, I strolled through the city, sporting my Sens jacket and really didn't get noticed by anyone.
At one point, a guy in a Rangers hat stood beside me at a cross walk. We exchanged a quick and mean spirited glance and both went on our way. I expect to draw a little more attention tonight.
The Sens were on the ice for their pregame skate but were without Jason Spezza, Matt Carkner and Zenon Konopka. MacLean spoke to the media afterwards and suggested that all three will be available for tonight's game. There were also indications from the morning skate that Jakob Silfverberg will play his second straight playoff game.
As has been the case all series, we'll have to wait till game time to know for sure.
Here is how the Sens are expected to line up but keep in mind, there could be changes before puck drop.
Michalek-Spezza-Silfverberg
Foligno-Turris-Alfredsson
Greening-Smith-Neil
Konopka-O'Brien-Condra
Kuba-Karlsson
Phillips-Carkner
Cowen-Gonchar
Game time is scheduled for just after 7:00 PM with all the action available on CBC. I'll do my best to update my Twitter account over the course of the afternoon and evening to let you know about my experience.
Enjoy this game everyone. Really can't beat the excitement of a Game Seven!
GO SENS GO!
