The Sens got just what they needed, another struggling team playing the 2nd game of a back to back, and they took full advantage, dropping the Jets 4-1 in their first game in Ottawa since 1995. It was an entirely different team out there tonight. I guess that closed door talk did some good, or the opponent was just that bad. Probably a bit of both.
So what was the difference tonight? Our key players played like key players. Jason Spezza and Milan Michalek each had 3 points tonight, Alfie scored on a beauty play, and we got solid goalkeeping from Craig Anderson. I would venture to say that if we get all of that, it will almost always result in a win.
The Sens get the worst team in the league on Saturday in Columbus, hoping to put a win streak together for the first time this season. Maybe we aren't as bad as we thought, or likely, our problem is consistently playing the way we did tonight.
Other thoughts from the game:
- Jesse Winchester looked solid in his first game back. Nothing fancy but solid. His normal type game.
- Peter Regin injured his shoulder and didn't return. Not good for a guy with past injury problems and in need of a big comeback season.
- Speaking of Regin's injury, the main beneficiaries could be Zibanejad or Da Costa, neither of whom were very noticeable tonight.
- Colin Greening had another big night, chipping in with 2 points tonight. He's looking to be growing into the power forward we desperately need.
- Anne Murray was at the game. Yes, that Anne Murray.
- Andre Ladd's nose was a mess after taking that puck to the face.
- Gonchar had a better game tonight I thought. Rundblad too.
- In fact the entire defence was a lot better than in previous games.
- Erik Karlsson needs to play better positionally and not take so many penalties.
Apparently the Sens also blew it promotional wise tonight as well. Kinda funny though. Yet typical.
With 2 goals and 1 assist, good for 3 points, Milan Michalek wins the night. Jason Spezza also had 3 helpers, so he gets honorable mention.
Post game thoughts?