Senators Looking to Bounce Back, Bruins Aiming to Strengthen Defensive Play
Ottawa Senators vs. Boston Bruins: Atlantic Division Showdown with Playoff Implications
As the Ottawa Senators (24-19-4) head to TD Garden for an Atlantic Division clash with the Boston Bruins (23-19-6), both teams are looking to bolster their playoff positioning. This matchup, set to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET, holds significant importance, particularly as Ottawa leads the four-game season series 2-0. After an impressive 5-0 shutout loss to the Rangers, the Senators will need to quickly rebound to maintain their momentum. On the other side, Boston is fresh off a 6-3 win over San Jose and aims to continue their recent success as they look to secure a higher standing in the competitive Atlantic Division.
Ottawa Senators: Seeking Consistency After Loss
The Senators’ hopes of extending their two-game winning streak were dashed in a disappointing 5-0 defeat to the Rangers in their previous outing. However, they remain confident in their ability to bounce back and have a solid 6-3-1 record in their last ten games against Boston, highlighting their ability to perform in these high-stakes matchups. Ottawa enters this game averaging 2.79 goals per game, ranking slightly above average in scoring. Yet, their performance against the Rangers showed their vulnerability, as they were unable to convert on 20 shots and failed to find the back of the net.
Leading the charge offensively for the Senators is Tim Stützle, with 45 points from 15 goals and 30 assists, alongside Drake Batherson’s 40 points from 14 goals and 26 assists. Brady Tkachuk also contributes significantly, tallying 38 points through 18 goals and 20 assists. Defensively, Ottawa has been solid, allowing just 2.79 goals per game, which ranks them ninth in the league. However, their defensive lapses in the Rangers game exposed weaknesses that they will need to address if they hope to secure a third win in their last four games.
Goalie Anton Forsberg has struggled this season, holding a 5-8-1 record with a 3.04 goals-against average (GAA) and a .915 save percentage. In his most recent relief appearance, he saved 10 of 13 shots. With Leevi Merilainen also facing challenges, Ottawa will need a stronger defensive performance in front of Forsberg to keep the Bruins at bay.
Boston Bruins: Can They Improve Defensive Play?
The Bruins are coming off an impressive 6-3 win over San Jose, but they find themselves in a competitive battle for the Atlantic Division’s upper ranks. Tied with Ottawa, Boston will be looking to leapfrog into third place with a win. Boston’s offensive game remains formidable, ranking sixth in the league, averaging 3.02 goals per game. The team’s depth shines through, with David Pastrnak leading the charge with 53 points (22 goals, 31 assists). Brad Marchand adds 37 points (17 goals, 20 assists), while Pavel Zacha offers secondary scoring with 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists).
Despite their offensive prowess, Boston has faced struggles defensively, surrendering an average of 3.17 goals per game, placing them 20th in the NHL. With a defense that gives up more goals than expected, the Bruins will need to tighten up if they hope to stave off Ottawa and improve their standing.
In net, Joonas Korpisalo has posted a solid 8-4-2 record but with a less-than-ideal 2.87 GAA and a .864 save percentage. In his last start against San Jose, he saved 25 of 28 shots. Boston’s defensive unit will need to provide more support for their netminder, especially against a potent Ottawa offense that can capitalize on any given opportunity.
Conclusion
Given the Bruins’ home advantage and potent offense, coupled with Ottawa’s recent struggles to score, Boston is positioned to claim this Atlantic Division win. The Senators will need to rely on timely goals and defensive resilience, but the Bruins are likely to outpace them in a high-energy contest. Expect a 4-2 victory for Boston.
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