Ottawa Senators @ New York Rangers – Game 78 Preview
Fresh off a humiliating 7-3 loss to the Montreal Canadiens, the Ottawa Senators are right back at it as they venture to the Big Apple.
(32-31-14, 78 points) 6th Atlantic Division
vs
(43-30-5, 91 points) 2nd Metropolitan Division
7:00 PM
Madison Square Garden
TV: CBC; RADIO: TSN1200
MATCHUP HISTORY
The Rangers have dominated the season series so far, winning both games in Ottawa by scores of 8-4 and 4-1. The last meeting on March 18th was especially embarrassing as they gave up 7 goals in the last 31 minutes. The Rangers completed their Western Road trip with a 3-2 shootout loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Thursday.
Mar 18, 2014; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; New York Rangers center Derick Brassard (16) scores against Ottawa Senators goalie Natan Lawson (29) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Rangers defeated the Senators 8-4. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
LAST GAMES
The Senators allowed 7 unanswered goals and blew an early 3-0 lead against the Montreal Canadiens on Friday night. The Rangers completed a Western road trip with a 3-2 shootout loss to the Colorado Avalanche.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Rick Nash, NYR – Has 3 goals in the previous 2 games against the Senators this season. In fact, in 12 career games against the Senators, he has 9 goals but has never recorded an assist. Part of Canada’s Gold Medal victory in Sochi.
Robin Lehner, OTT – After Craig Anderson allowed 7 goals on 23 shots Friday, the net will be Lehner’s against the Rangers. He was the starter for the 8-4 loss a couple of weeks ago, getting the hook after the 2nd period (allowing 5 goals) but having to return after Nate Lawson was injured.
TOP 3 STORYLINES FOR THE GAME
1. Clinch – The Rangers can clinch a playoff spot with a win in this game, and also put some space between themselves and the Flyers for home ice in the first round.
2. Bounceback – This game will go a long way to determining the fate of Paul MacLean. Another performance like Friday’s, and it will be apparent the team has quit on their coach.
3. Pride – The Senators should be embarassed at their performance on Friday and if not playing for jobs should at least show some pride in their game, because there isn’t much left.