Ottawa Senators vs New Jersey Devils – Game 80 Preview
It is fan appreciation night at Canadian Tire Centre as the Ottawa Senators play host for the second last time this season against another team recently having their playoff hopes crushed.
(34-29-16, 84 points) 6th Metropolitan Division
VS
(34-31-14, 82 points) 6th Atlantic Division
7:30 PM
Canadian Tire Centre
TV: Rogers Sportsnet; RADIO: TSN1200
MATCHUP HISTORY
The Devils and Senators have split the two previous meetings this season, both teams winning on home ice, by scores of 5-2.
Dec 18, 2013; Newark, NJ, USA; Ottawa Senators left wing Milan Michalek (9) scores a goal on New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur (30) during the third period at the Prudential Center. The Devils defeated the Senators 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
LAST GAMES
Ottawa won their second straight in New York state with a win over the Islanders by a score of 4-1. New Jersey was shut out 1-0 on Monday night by the Calgary Flames.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Jaromir Jagr, NJD – The ageless one has had a remarkable season in New Jersey. He leads the club in points with 64 and in +/- by a country mile with a +15 rating (the next best Devil is +3). It could be the last time Senators fans see a legend in Ottawa, but don’t count on it the way he has played this season.
Patrick Wiercioch, OTT – The season ending injury to Jared Cowen has given Wiercioch a chance to get back into the lineup and play solid minutes. His 3 assists in his last 5 games has allowed him to set career highs in points and assists and is one off his career high of 5 set last season.
TOP 3 STORYLINES FOR THE GAME
1. No Marty – Martin Brodeur is another legend that might be on his last tour, but he won’t get the start, that honour will go to Cory Schneider.
2. Milestone – Erik Karlsson needs 6 points in the last 3 games to set a new career high in points. It is an outside shot but still possible.
3. Fan Appreciation – The fans that have stood by the team this season should be appreciated, after all they have been on a roller coaster that would rival Canada’s Wonderland.