Ottawa Senators: Johnny Oduya Injured In Season Opener

Game one for the Ottawa Senators was more positive than negative. Despite losing in a shootout they performed well and were the better team overall. However, they had one big loss as Johnny Oduya left the game with an injury.

Johnny Oduya was one of the better defencemen for the Ottawa Senators last night. It was good to see a veteran step up in the absence of Erik Karlsson. However, Oduya sadly left the game early in the third period after blocking a shot.

Although it was uncertain how bad the injury was at the time it appears that he will miss some time. He did not practice with the team today which is a sign that he will miss at least next game. This puts the Sens in a bit of a predicament going forward.

Karlsson

If Oduya is out for any amount of games the Sens have to make a decision on who will replace him. If Karlsson is ready for the game on Saturday then it’s an easy solution. However, that may not be the case.

Opportunity

If Karlsson is not ready to return then it may mean that Thomas Chabot gets his chance to earn his spot after all. The Sens will be forced to recall someone from AHL and Chabot has got to be the first choice.

If Chabot returns he will likely take the opportunity and run with it. He’s the type of player that will not let such an opportunity go to waste. If he performs well the Sens will have to make another tough choice once both Karlsson and Oduya reurn.

Next: Ottawa Senators Fall To The Washington Capitals In Season Opener

Fighting For Spots

If Chabot performs too well to send down and both Karlsson and Oduya are back the Sens will have to make some tough choices on who makes the team. Phaneuf and Ceci will likely get two of the three remaining spots. However, that leaves Claesson, Wideman, and Borowiecki will be left fighting for one spot. Odds are this means that either Claesson or Wideman will get the spot and the other will be sent to the AHL. Borowiecki would likely stay on as the seventh defenceman.

Injuries last night have cause problems for the Ottawa Senators. However, with injury comes opportunity and players ready to seize them.