The Ottawa Senators are eager to put a challenging November behind them as they faced disappointment with a 4-5-0 record over a league-low nine games. This subpar performance dropped them to last place in the Eastern Conference, holding an 8-9-0 record. Despite having games in hand due to their participation in the NHL’s Global Series in Sweden, the Senators face an uphill battle, trailing the Tampa Bay Lightning by nine points for the final wild card spot with six fewer games played.
Head coach D.J. Smith acknowledges the need for a turnaround and emphasizes the importance of winning games while playing correctly. With a demanding schedule ahead, including 15 games in 31 days and two sets of back-to-backs, the Senators aim to rediscover their winning rhythm. However, their recent struggles, especially on home ice where they lost seven of their last eight games, raise concerns about their ability to capitalize on home advantage.
The team’s overall performance has fallen below expectations, as evidenced by a disheartening 5-0 loss to the Florida Panthers. Coach Smith took responsibility for the defeat, admitting that he failed to prepare his players adequately. The Senators lack consistency, struggle defensively, and are yet to establish a clear identity.
The goaltending tandem of Joonas Korpisalo and Anton Forsberg has been mediocre, ranking 28th in the league with an .887 save percentage. Special teams have also underperformed, with a penalty-killing unit operating at a 74.6 success rate (26th in the league) and a power play going 2-for-19 in the last four games (20th in the league).
Coach Smith emphasizes the importance of the penalty kill, stating that keeping the puck out of their net is crucial. Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope with the return of defenseman Thomas Chabot after missing the last 10 games with a fractured hand. Additionally, center Ridly Greig is back on the ice after an injury on Nov. 2, although his return date remains uncertain.
The team looks ahead to a more regular schedule, hoping to find a rhythm and build momentum. Defenseman Travis Hamonic sees the busier schedule as an opportunity to establish a routine that can positively impact their performance. Forward Josh Norris emphasizes the need for consistency, recognizing it as a crucial element in sports and expressing the team’s ongoing efforts to achieve it. As they enter a pivotal month, the Senators aim to overcome their struggles, capitalize on returning players, and establish a more consistent and successful performance on the ice.
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