Last Saturday’s loss felt like a “something’s got to give” type of moment in the Senators season. They blew three leads, gave up five goals, and somehow found a way to lose 5-4 to the Islanders. Keep in mind, Travis Green is not an offensive coach. He wants a team committed to strong defensive play. Tonight’s game saw the Senators deliver in regards to tight defensive hockey. After giving up the first goal on the game’s first shot, they shut down the Philadelphia Flyers and came out with a 2-1 victory. Let’s dive into the details.
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Strong Defensive Game
Here were the highlights for the Senators tonight- Linus Ullmark stopped 21 out the 22 shots he faced, the penalty kill went a perfect three for three, and the Senators gave up less than three goals for the first time all season. This was by no means a game that fans will remember as time goes on, but it’s exactly how the Senators need to play early in the season, to reestablish themselves as a strong defensive team. Two standouts for their defensive play- Thomas Chabot, who led the way with just under 27 minutes, and Shane Pinto, who played just under 23 minutes, including 4:33 on the penalty kill.
First Goals of the Season
Both Michael Amadio and Olle Lycksell scored their first goals of the season tonight. Amadio has shown himself to be a slow starter in each of the last two seasons with the Senators. Tonight was his first point in eight games this season. He scored his first point last season in game nine, and his first goal in game 14. Let’s hope this is the start of him heating up. As for Lycksell, his goal was the game winner, against his former team. His last NHL goal came back in April of 2024. For a guy trying to remain in the lineup, a big goal like tonight will help his cause.
Additional Notes
Here are some things that have caught my eye this season: Lars Eller is a solid addition. He’s not flashy, but he’s a dependable defensive forward, who can play 10-14 minutes a night. Tim Stutzle seems to have the puck bounce over his stick quite a bit. This is noticeable because he does so much good, but then can’t seem to finish. The Senators have strong defensive depth. People want Spence back in the lineup, but Matinpalo is a solid player in his own right. That’s a good problem to have, especially with Nick Jensen coming off surgery in the offseason. Up next for the Senators, on the road against Washington on Saturday.
