If you've been keeping an eye on the Eastern Conference standings, you'll notice the Ottawa Senators are making a serious push for the playoffs. They're not just hanging around-they're playing as well, if not better, than some of the teams currently ahead of them in the wild card race.
Although still a few points back, the Senators are gaining momentum. With games in hand, they have a real shot at clinching a postseason spot. This team is on the kind of roll that could propel them right into the playoffs.
The Senators Are Heating Up-and It Could Stick
Since the Olympic break, Ottawa has been on a tear. In their last 12 games, they've amassed 18 points with an impressive 8-2-2 record.
Compare that to teams like Detroit, who are struggling, and it's clear why Ottawa might just push their way into a playoff position. March is when every game counts, and right now, the Senators are trending in the right direction.
Three Reasons the Senators Could Make a Playoff Push
Here’s why Ottawa could shake things up:
Reason One: Brady Tkachuk is a force to be reckoned with.
His stats are impressive (47 points in 49 games), but Tkachuk offers much more. He's the heart and soul of the Senators, willing to drop the gloves and score clutch goals, like his recent game-winner with 13 seconds left against the New York Islanders. He's doing it all.
Reason Two: The Senators are riding a wave of momentum.
Hockey is a game of streaks, and Ottawa is on a hot one. Some of the teams above them are faltering, and if the Senators can string together a few more wins, their confident locker room could turn them from contenders to playoff participants. Late-season hockey is thrilling because timing can be as crucial as talent.
Reason Three: The Senators have depth and grit.
This isn't a one-man show. Ottawa boasts players who step up in critical moments and battle through tough games. That's what sets real playoff teams apart, and Ottawa is right in that mix.
The Senators Could Soon Be the Talk of the Town
While they might not be the most talked-about team yet, with Tkachuk leading the charge and the team heating up, the Ottawa Senators have a legitimate chance to break into the playoffs. And if they do, they could be a formidable opponent once they're there.