The Senators return to Ottawa following their first ever sweep of Western Canada in franchise history. The team has managed to begin the season with zero regulation losses despite missing their captain.
Mere weeks ago, anxiety and doubt surrounded the Senators due to the plethora of injuries plaguing the squad’s roster. However, the team has displayed a remarkable amount of depth, beginning the season with a 3-0-2 record.
Last weekend, the Senators scored 12 goals from seven different players in back-to-back nights versus Calgary and Edmonton.
Kyle Turris has been Ottawa’s most effective forward, tallying seven points on the road and finally ending the team’s power play drought. Mike Hoffman was also an offensive threat, scoring three goals in two games.
The offensive output of Cody Ceci and Chris Wideman has also been a pleasant surprise. Both defensemen have made the most of their increased ice time in the absence of Erik Karlsson.
Additionally, the Senators have displayed an impressive amount of defensive depth. While Johnny Oduya was able to return from injury on Saturday, rookie defensemen Thomas Chabot and Christian Jaros have helped keep the ship afloat on the back end.
The Senators are also the only team in the league to remain perfect on the penalty kill and currently boast the best GAA at 1.60.
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Karlsson Nears Return
The timetable for the captain’s return to the lineup continues to be a moving target. General manager Pierre Dorion stated over the weekend that Karlsson should play at some point during the team’s upcoming five game home stand.
On Sunday, the Senators reassigned Chabot to Belleville, which could mean that Karlsson will be ready to play as early as Tuesday.
While the Senators are missing Karlsson and the dominance he brings, the team has proven to possess solid depth. The season is still young, but the Senators appear to be picking up right where they left off in May.