Meanings for Bytown

The next two games in my mind will decide if the Sens are for real. Nashville will be an easy one, not only will the Preds come off a doubleheader, but they are still looking for goaltending. None of Dan Ellis or Pekka Rinne have emerged as the starter, so that’s one up for Ottawa. Boston on Saturday will be huge. The B’s were 1st in the East last year but have already lost Milan Lucic and Marc Savard to injuries. That’s something, yet again, Ottawa has to take advantage of.

Cory Clouston said today it will be either Ryan Shannon or Shean Donovan looking on the outside in on Thursday. Cory also remarked Jesse Winchester is ready for action but will have to “earn his spot”. I called it yesterday and it seems like Winnie will have to be either the 13th or 14th forward. Even though Jesse is on a one-way contract, and he’s a very likeable player, conditioning in Binghamton may be solution for him.

James Gordon said Elliott would likely start next Wednesday against the Panthers. I like the idea of putting Pascal in against touger competition, because it will get harder November. However, we need to look closely and not fatigue Leclaire.