There’s something about a two goal lead that’s been quite the challenge for the Senators lately. They were up 2-0 on the Flyers last Saturday, but completely sat back as the Flyers tied the game at two before the Senators won in overtime. Two nights ago, the Senators went up 2-0 against the Stars before losing that game, 3-2 in overtime. Tonight, the Senators once again had a great first period, going up 2-0. They were also up 3-1 early in the third. Then, the Bruins scored two goals in under two minutes for another blown Senators lead. Luckily, it was Tim Stutzle to the rescue! He scored the game winner with just over five minutes to play, and then added an empty to netter as this one finished 5-3 for the Senators. Let’s dive into the details.
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Scoring Centres
Not only did Tim Stutzle score his ninth and tenth goals of the season tonight, but both Shane Pinto and Dylan Cozens scored goals as well. It was Pinto’s ninth and Cozens’ seventh of the year. That put the three centres up to 26 total goals through 18 games. That puts them on pace for 118 goals this season, with all three guys on pace for at least 30 goals. You need to be strong up the middle to contend. The Senators centres are a big reason to believe that the Sens are primed to make the playoffs for the second consecutive season.
Depleted Defense
There’s plenty of good to come out of this last stretch of games for the Senators that has seen them go without a regulation loss in seven consecutive games. Perhaps the biggest concern, though, is what’s happened with their defense. Thomas Chabot was hurt in the last game against the Stars, and wasn’t able to play tonight. Nick Jensen was hurt tonight and left the game early. Jake Sanderson was also shaken up after taking a shot to the hand. Luckily for the Senators, their depth has been a strength this season. Take Jordan Spence, for example. His assist today gives him eight points in nine games. Nikolas Matinpalo was also solid tonight, playing over 20 minutes and blocking four shots.
Additional Notes
Some developing good news for the Senators- Leevi Merilainen has earned the trust of the coaches once again. After a rough start to the season that saw Merilainen sent down to get some playing time in the AHL, Merilainen has now won three straight starts. How about Claude Giroux tonight? There was the power play goal to start the game, and massive hit in the middle of the game, and then an assist on the Stutzle empty netter to end the game. He’s now up to 14 points in 19 games, not bad for a 37 year old on a cheap contract. Up next for the Senators, a home game against a Kings team that is fresh off beating both the Canadiens and the Maple Leafs.
