Binghamton Senators Host Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins: Game Preview

The Binghamton Senators are in fourth place 10 points behind the first place East Division leader’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in what has become the Pens owning the Sens as of late winning all three contests played so far this season between the two rivals. Tonight’s the night things change as the Senators are fresh off their holiday break and will go fishing for the other white meat.

 

(12-13-2-1, 27 pts) 4th in East Division

Vs

(17-10-1-2, 37 pts) 1st in East Division

7:05 PM

Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena

RADIO: 96.9 FM, 680 AM. AHL Live

MATCH-UP HISTORY

The Senators have lost their first three games to the Penguins by the scores of 3-2, 6-4 and a 3-0 shutout on home ice last Saturday.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jeff Zatkoff, WBS – With his 35 save shutout performance last Saturday over the Sens, there’s no reason he can’t try to repeat in shutting down Binghamton’s potent offense, currently ranked second in the league averaging 3.29 goals per game. His numbers read 10-5-1-2, 1.77 GAA and 0.926 SV% in 16 games. I think Binghamton will be ready.

Max McCormick, BNG – Just completed a feature on the rookie as he’s been progressing in his development for the Senators. Kinda stuck on centering the fourth line but needs to continue to work hard to further his all around game, and tonight might be the night for Max to break out. Let’s hope someone does.

THREE KEYS TO THE GAME

1. Senators Need a Win – This losing trend needs to stop tonight against the Penguins as it’s just unsettling to soak in the three losses so far. And fresh in everyone’s mind is the last two season’s early first round exits that have been to the Pens as well.

2. Fresh Off the Christmas Break – As the break couldn’t have come at a better time while the team is mired in a four game losing streak. Time for them to shake it off and start playing better, especially on home ice.

3. Penguins Rich in Depth with Goaltenders – Eric Hartzell (2-0-0-0, 2.92, 0.882) dominated the Senators in last season’s playoffs. He’s currently playing in the ECHL for the Wheeling Nailers. Matt Murray (5-5-2-2, 2.08, 0.915) is backing Zatkoff. That’s three quality netminders ready to go if needed. Wow.

B-SENS TWEET OF THE GAME



*Cover Pic Courtesy of SenShot’s Photographer Alicia Strauch