The Ottawa Senators are gearing up for their second game of the season tonight. They will take on the Detroit Red Wings tonight in their first divisional matchup of the season.
When the Ottawa Senators left off they were coming off a shootout loss at the hands of the Washington Capitals. Now with the Red Wings coming to town the Sens will be looking for their first win of the season.
Forward
For their lineup tonight there are only minor changes. At forward the Sens will be icing: Bobby Ryan, Derick Brassard, Mark Stone, Zack Smith, Kyle Turris, Ryan Dzingel, Mike Hoffman, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Tom Pyatt, Alex Formenton, Nate Thompson, and Alex Burrows.
Defence
On Defence the Sens have: Dion Phaneuf, Cody Ceci, Ben Harpur, Fredrik Claesson, Mark Borowiecki, and Chris Wideman.
Goal
In goal Craig Anderson will once again get the start after a poor performance on opening night. Mike Condon will remain in the backup position.
Alex Formenton
The big story tonight is Alex Formenton will make his NHL debut. He will be replacing Logan Brown in the lineup. Boucher stated that it was because Brown performed poorly in the previous game but simply that Formenton’s style is a better fit against the Red Wings. He’s more of a quick player which is better suited against the Red Wings. Brown is more of a power forward which is better suited against the Capitals.
Ben Harpur
The Sens recalled Ben Harpur yesterday as the replacement for Johnny Oduya. This means that they are committed to letting Chabot develop in the AHL. Since Harpur is in the lineup it means that Karlsson is not yet ready to play quite yet. Although his return could be any game Harpur will get the call tonight.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Johnny Oduya Injured In Season Opener
Keeping Up With The Pack
The Atlantic Division is off to a strong start thus far with many teams picking up early wins. With the Red Wings projected to be bottom feeders this is a game the Ottawa Senators have to win. Falling behind in the standings early could be difficult to come back from.