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Ottawa Senators: Winnipeg Wander Into Kanata

By Conor Peniston-Bird

Oct 3, 2016; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Ottawa Senators defenceman Matt Bartkowski (12) has his shot blocked by Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien (33) during the third period at MTS Centre. Winnipeg wins 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2016; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Ottawa Senators defenceman Matt Bartkowski (12) has his shot blocked by Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien (33) during the third period at MTS Centre. Winnipeg wins 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports /
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Most fans fear the back-to-back. Relax Ottawa Senator fans, Winnipeg also played last night, and the Sens have two extraordinarily in-form goalies.

The Winnipeg Jets have not pushed on given their number of top-10 draft picks in the six years since they returned to Manitoba. Four top-10 draft picks in the last six drafts have not led the Jets out of their slump just yet. Reaching the playoffs just once in 2014-15 before being lit up by the Anaheim Ducks.

The Jets have changed their style of play in recent outings, opting for a more physical game. The Montreal Canadiens felt the full force of this last night in a thrilling encounter. Ottawa are one of few teams prepared for the type of physical assault that Winnipeg will bring Sunday afternoon.

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Ottawa will want to stick to their game plan and draw the aggressive Jets out of position in their own zone. Erik Karlsson will be a key asset in this game as his quick puck movement could embarrass the on rushing Jets.

Similarly, Winnipeg could drag the Sens into a more physical game than they want to take part in. Although defensively orientated, they do not want to be dragged into personal battles that takes them out of the system. Guy Boucher will be sure to keep his players composed and not although anything to boil over.

Stopping wonder-kid Patrik Laine will be on the minds of the Sens. Having not faced their compatriots in the regular season, it’s natural to fear the unknown.   He tested Carey Price on multiple occasions only to score on an empty net.

Tonight’s game will be an intriguing view of goaltenders. Connor Hellebuyck has been impressive for the Jets, and you would imagine Mike Condon slots back into the crease.

Next: Sens Will Win The Atlantic Division

Points mean prizes at this part of the season and the Sens will take the top spot in the Atlantic with a win.

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