1. Forsberg finally silences the critics
Linus Ullmark made the trip to Utah with the speculation of starting in goal after missing the past three games due to a strain injury. However, Ullmark still wasn't ready to play, and it meant Anton Forsberg would get his fourth consecutive start. Concern about Ullmark grew tremendously and pressure on Forsberg was higher.
Forsberg allowed in at least three goals in his past three starts, including four goals allowed in the previous game against the Lightning. Goaltending with Forsberg has been a major concern and some wondered if his Senators tenure could be coming to an end. Against Utah, Forsberg delivered his best game of the season.
Forsberg recorded 31 saves to earn his sixth career shutout. Twenty-four of Forsberg's 31 saves came in the first and second period combined.
Forsberg with his best two saves of the game. #GoSensGo
— Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) October 23, 2024
Sens need to tighten up. Nice lead but giving up a ton in the d-zone. Feels like a matter of time. pic.twitter.com/edvWzdfBr3
Forsberg's shutout against Utah are the signs that the Senators hope that he's capable of showing when Ullmark isn't starting. With needing to earn trust back from the Senators this season, Forsberg's shutout in his fourth start of the season is a great way to earn trust again from head coach Travis Green.
The Senators will continue their three-game West Coast road trip on Friday night at 6 p.m. ET when they take on the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena. Last season against Vegas, Ottawa went 1-1-0. Ottawa hasn't won in Vegas since Vegas' inaugural season in 2017-18.