As the Ottawa Senators approach the regular season, their recent preseason games have revealed both promising talent and areas needing improvement. Over the past week, the Senators faced off against both the Montreal Canadiens and the St. Louis Blues, showcasing a mix of strong individual performances and team struggles.
Key Matchups and Results
In a much-anticipated rivalry game, the Senators met the Canadiens, suffering a tough 5-0 defeat that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. This game highlighted issues in defensive play and team cohesion, as the Canadiens took control early and dominated throughout. The Senators’ owner, Michael Andlauer, expressed his frustrations regarding the loss, particularly criticizing Montreal's decision to relocate their training camp to Quebec City immediately after the game.
However, the Senators quickly rebounded, showcasing resilience in their next outing against the Canadiens once again. They triumphed with a 3-1 victory, demonstrating a more cohesive effort. Key players like Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and Claude Giroux stepped up, contributing significantly to the offense. This win not only lifted team morale but also signaled their capability to bounce back under pressure.
On the other hand, the Senators faced a challenging game against the St. Louis Blues, where they were handed a lopsided 7-1 defeat. The game served as a stark reminder of the defensive lapses that have plagued the team throughout the preseason. The Blues capitalized on Ottawa's mistakes, making it clear that improvements are necessary before the regular season begins.
Player Performances
Several players have emerged as standout contributors during the preseason. Jake Sanderson and Ridly Greig have been particularly notable, with Sanderson's defensive skills and Greig's offensive creativity catching the eye. Meanwhile, veterans like David Perron and Claude Giroux have provided leadership and experience, crucial for a team looking to solidify its playoff ambitions this season.
The addition of Kurtis MacDermid, acquired from the New Jersey Devils, adds a physical presence to the lineup, addressing some concerns regarding toughness after the recent losses. His ability to protect teammates and contribute to the physical game will be vital as the Senators prepare for the rigors of the NHL season.
Despite injuries clouding final roster decisions, the Senators' coaching staff remains optimistic. The blend of young talent and seasoned players could be the key to a successful season. As the team finalizes its roster, the integration of new faces alongside established stars will be crucial in shaping their identity.
TL;DR
- The Ottawa Senators suffered a 5-0 loss to the Montreal Canadiens before rebounding with a 3-1 victory in their next matchup.
- Key players like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle have shown promise during the preseason.
- The Senators faced a significant defeat against the St. Louis Blues, losing 7-1, highlighting defensive issues.
- The acquisition of Kurtis MacDermid aims to bolster the team's physicality ahead of the regular season.