Senators’ Win Against Lightning Brings Them One Step Closer to Playoff Berth

Last night, the Ottawa Senators faced off against their Atlantic Division opponent, the Tampa Bay Lightning. In what could be one of the biggest wins they’ve had this season, they came into the game looking to add to the lead on the Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, New York Islanders and Washington Capitals for the second wild card spot.

Thankfully, they were able to pick up a huge 6-2 win against the Lightning and move two points up on the Blue Jackets. Three on the Red Wings and Islanders, and five up on the Capitals. Now, with just four games remaining, their season could very well come down to a vitally important game against the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 82. However, before that, let’s look at the next three games.

Senators are One Step Closer to Playoff Berth

The Senators’ next game is on Thursday against the Florida Panthers, which a year ago would make fans nervous. But this season, it’s very much the opposite. They are injury-ridden, tired and one of the league’s bottom-feeders. That could be a game they win and extend their lead.

After that, they face off in a very big game against the Islanders. Depending on how things go with the Senators’ next game and the Islanders’ games leading up to Saturday, this could be a make-or-break game, while also being one where they can play spoiler. If they win, that could help eliminate the Islanders and move them one step closer to clinching a playoff berth.

After that, they take on a struggling New Jersey Devils team that was officially eliminated from playoff contention last night. This is a game that could be rather difficult. It is the second half of a back-to-back, and their third game in four nights. If they win that game and extend their winning streak to five games, it all but solidifies their playoff berth. However, if they lose any of the three, that could set up a chance for their playoff hopes resting on a massive game against the Maple Leafs in the final game of the season.

The final game goes Wednesday, April 15 at home. That has all the makings for a game that could be the highlight of their season. They could get the satisfaction of beating the Maple Leafs while also clinching a playoff berth for the second season in a row. It does seem like fans would love that to happen, but the majority would likely rather their club lock up a playoff spot this week and allow their players to rest.

It ultimately comes down to the health of their players. They’ve been dealing with a ton of injuries to their blue line. However, they did receive some good news today, when head coach Travis Green revealed Thomas Chabot is closer than originally thought and could return to the lineup soon.

If everything goes well, the club will punch their ticket this weekend and give the fans some time to relax before the stress of the postseason begins.