GAME DAY UPDATE Cory Conacher, Patrick Wiercioch Will Play Game 3 For The Senators
As the teams take to the ice for the pre-game warmups, the Ottawa Senators lineup will have a different look. Cory Conacher is in for Guillaume Latendresse, while Patrick Wiercioch will play in place of Andre Benoit, who played game 2 in Eric Gryba‘s spot.
Apr. 5, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman
Patrick Wiercioch(46) takes a shot on goal during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at First Niagara Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
There was some speculation that Mark Stone might dress for the game. Stone is in Ottawa with a number of the eliminated Binghamton Senators, and he would have been looked up on to provide some offensive chances, and a presence on the much-maligned power play. Stone is a big body with great hands, but not fleet of foot.
Conacher played game 1 but was scratched for game 2 and will get a chance in game 3 before MacLean looks to the black aces for help.
Wiercioch would have been my choice to start the opening game of the series ahead of Gryba, but he is finally getting a chance to play. He will bring some extra ability to get out of their defensive zone, as well as a presence on that power play that was so disappointing in Montreal.
On the Montreal side, both Brian Gionta and Max Pacioretty are taking the pregame warmup and may play after missing Game 2.
Game time is 7:00 pm, and you can read the full preview HERE.
Ottawa is dressing a lineup built for offense (at least as much as they can at the moment, so it will be a chance to put them up in the series, as long as they can take care of their own end.