With just three games to go before the Olympic break, the Ottawa Senators are showing signs of life - and not just a pulse, but a bit of swagger, too.
Three straight wins over the Golden Knights, Avalanche, and Devils have breathed new energy into a team that, not long ago, looked like it might be playing out the string. It's still a steep climb to get back into the Eastern Conference playoff mix, but if you're looking for momentum, this is what it looks like.
Next up: a road trip that starts in Pittsburgh, where the Senators will face Sidney Crosby and the Penguins. It's a classic test - veteran star power on one side, a surging, hungry group on the other. And for Ottawa, it's a chance to keep building something before the league hits pause for the Olympic break.
There could be a tweak to the blue line tonight. Thomas Chabot is listed as a game-time decision, and the plan is to have seven defensemen take warmups before a final call is made. For now, expect the same lineup that got it done Saturday night.
Here’s how the Senators are expected to line up:
Forwards:
- Batherson - Stützle - Giroux
- Tkachuk - Cozens - Greig
- Amadio - Pinto - Zetterlund
- Halliday - Eller - Cousins
Defense:
- Sanderson - Zub
- Chabot - Jensen
- Kleven - Spence
Goaltender:
- Linus Ullmark (getting the nod for a second straight start)
Ullmark’s back between the pipes after a strong showing last time out, and why not? When your goalie’s dialed in, you ride the wave. Especially on the road, where a hot netminder can be the great equalizer.
Puck drops at 7:08 PM. TSN5 and TVA Sports will have the TV broadcast, while TSN1200 and 104.7 FM will carry the radio call.
And if you’re looking for a little extra context heading into this one - maybe some numbers to chew on - there’s a stat table making the rounds that’s being called “the best statistical table in most of Eastern Ontario.” We’re not saying it’s gospel, but it might just give you a sharper lens on what to expect tonight.
Bottom line? The Senators are heating up at just the right time. If they can keep this streak alive on the road, they’ll head into the Olympic break with more than just hope - they’ll have a real shot at making things interesting down the stretch.