Friday, March 16th, 2012
7:30 pm
Sportsnet, Team 1200
7th East (37-27-10)@15th East (28-33-13)
The Ottawa Senators visit the Montreal Canadiens in what has almost become a must win game. There has been two meetings between these teams this month already, with each team going 1-0-1. With Buffalo only 4 points behind Ottawa, the Sens know they have to take advantage of a weak Montreal team. However, they have struggled against the Habs this season, winning 2 of 5 meetings so far.
The Canadiens’ leading scorer is the reinvigorated Max Pacioretty with 58 points (30G 28A). Close behind him is David Desharnais with 55 points (16G 39A). Carey Price continues to post solid numbers behind the worst team in the East with a 2.44 GAA along with a .914 SV%. Montreal has confirmed that Price will be in nets. The Sens will finally have starter Craig Anderson back returning from his hand injury.
Senators forward Jesse Winchester (concussion) and Peter Regin (shoulder) remain out with injuries. As well, Bobby Butler, Zenon Konopka, and Matt Carkner will likely be healthy scratches. For the Habs their injury list is quite extensive, with Scott Gomez, Raphael Diaz, Brian Gionta, Mike Blunden, Travis Moen, and Mathieu Darche all out with various injuries. Gomez and Kaberle are gametime decisions, and may play.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Craig Anderson, G (OTT) – His first game in over 4 weeks, and with playoff hopes on the line, there’s a lot of pressure on Anderson returning between the pipes.
Lars Eller, C (MTL) – Eller seems to have his best games against Ottawa. He also had a nice chat with his ex-teammate and friend Karlsson while they were both serving offsetting minors last game.
THINGS TO WATCH FOR
1. Watch Behind You – The Sens plain and simple need to win this game with Buffalo only four points behind! They will also be facing the Penguins tomorrow, making tonight’s match even more important!
2. Fix the PP – Ottawa’s power play has been cold, especially the last time they faced Montreal where they went 0/10.
3. EK65 Going For 80 – Erik Karlsson stands at 72 points at the moment. If he can reach the 80 point mark, that would definitely get the media’s attention when it comes to choosing the Norris winner.
Be sure to check back here on SenShot for a complete recap after the game. GO SENS GO!!!
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