The Ottawa Senators will look to close 2009 on a positive note tonight when they play host to John Tavares and the New York Islanders.
It was one year ago to the day that John Tavares electrified Scotiabank Place as he led Team Canada to a thrilling win over the United States. Tonight the rookie sensation returns to the scene of the crime.
Meanwhile, the Senators are looking to bounce back from a tough loss last night to the Avs on home ice. Clouston is expected to make one line up change tonight meaning Erik Karlsson could draw back into the line up. Picard or Campoli would come out.
The decision will be made later today.
The forward combinations were juggled a little bit towards the end of the game last night and with the Senators not skating this morning we won't know how they'll line up till tonight.
Here's hoping Nick Foligno sees a little more ice time. Pascal Leclaire will get the start in goal.
Quick rumour sent my way late yesterday. It said that the Senators may be interested in Coyotes forward Scottie Upshall. Upshall is having a solid year in Phoenix with 13 goal and is currently making $1.5 mil a season and is scheduled to be an RFA at season's end.
Lastly, good luck to Team Canada tonight as they face off against their rivals from the United States in a showdown for top spot in the pool.
GO CANADA GO!
GO SENS GO!
Let's close out 2009 in style!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Decent Effort But Sens Fall Short
The Senators staged a furious third period rally tonight against the Colorado Avalanche but came up a goal short tonight on home ice. Few close calls late in this one but Ottawa just couldn't find a way to get the tying goal.
Ottawa really didn't have much going the first 40 minutes but seemed to find their legs in the final frame.
Pascal Leclaire was the star the other night against the Habs but really didn't have his best outing tonight. 3 of the 4 Avalanche goals were ones that I'm sure Pascal would love to have back. Don't be surprised to see Elliott back in between the pipes tomorrow.
We don't get a chance to see the Avalanche often but I was really impressed with their game through the first 40 minutes.
They may not have many household names but they really have one of the smoothest transition games I've seen in the league this year. Their defence gets the puck up to their forwards in an awful hurry.
Ottawa got a solid effort from a few guys tonight including the often criticized Ryan Shannon. I'll admit I've been critical of Shannon at times this year but he has really stepped up since Alfie went down.
Also thought Nick Foligno and Peter Regin had solid efforts this evening.
Quick turnaround for the Senators as they are back in action tomorrow night when they play host to the New York Islanders. Here's hoping the Senators can get back on track on New Year's Eve.
On a side note, is there any way the readers here at SensChirp can help make this silly Pepsi promotion "Eh-Oh Canada Go" thing go away forever.
It really is an embarrassment.
Anyway, until tomorrow...
Ottawa really didn't have much going the first 40 minutes but seemed to find their legs in the final frame.
Pascal Leclaire was the star the other night against the Habs but really didn't have his best outing tonight. 3 of the 4 Avalanche goals were ones that I'm sure Pascal would love to have back. Don't be surprised to see Elliott back in between the pipes tomorrow.
We don't get a chance to see the Avalanche often but I was really impressed with their game through the first 40 minutes.
They may not have many household names but they really have one of the smoothest transition games I've seen in the league this year. Their defence gets the puck up to their forwards in an awful hurry.
Ottawa got a solid effort from a few guys tonight including the often criticized Ryan Shannon. I'll admit I've been critical of Shannon at times this year but he has really stepped up since Alfie went down.
Also thought Nick Foligno and Peter Regin had solid efforts this evening.
Quick turnaround for the Senators as they are back in action tomorrow night when they play host to the New York Islanders. Here's hoping the Senators can get back on track on New Year's Eve.
On a side note, is there any way the readers here at SensChirp can help make this silly Pepsi promotion "Eh-Oh Canada Go" thing go away forever.
It really is an embarrassment.
Anyway, until tomorrow...
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Preparing for the Avalanche
(UPDATE 4:46 PM)- The Ottawa Senators returned forward Ryan Keller to Binghamton this afternoon. Looks like Nick Foligno will return tomorrow against the Avalanche.
The Senators were back on the ice this morning in preparation for tomorrow's game with the surprising Colorado Avalanche.
Here were the lines at practice this morning...
Michalek-Fisher-Neil
Kovalev-Regin-Shannon
Keller-Kelly-Cheechoo
Foligno-Winchester-Donovan
Jarkko Ruutu did not skate today. The combinations lead me to believe that there's a chance Nick Foligno will be back in the line up tomorrow night, with Ryan Keller coming out. There is no official update on Foligno yet this morning.
On the injury front, the Senators remain hopeful that Daniel Alfredsson could be out for less than the full six weeks originally reported, although it's really too early in the rehab process to know for sure.
Alfie is known for his remarkable recoveries so an early return wouldn't surprise me in the least.
The thinking on Spezza is that he will return after the Olympic break in February.
Nick Foligno's name came up in a rumour sent my way this morning. Word is a couple Western Conference teams may have inquired about Foligno. Reality is the Senators are in no position to be trading forward depth right now so this doesn't make any sense.
The Senators were back on the ice this morning in preparation for tomorrow's game with the surprising Colorado Avalanche.
Here were the lines at practice this morning...
Michalek-Fisher-Neil
Kovalev-Regin-Shannon
Keller-Kelly-Cheechoo
Foligno-Winchester-Donovan
Jarkko Ruutu did not skate today. The combinations lead me to believe that there's a chance Nick Foligno will be back in the line up tomorrow night, with Ryan Keller coming out. There is no official update on Foligno yet this morning.
On the injury front, the Senators remain hopeful that Daniel Alfredsson could be out for less than the full six weeks originally reported, although it's really too early in the rehab process to know for sure.
Alfie is known for his remarkable recoveries so an early return wouldn't surprise me in the least.
The thinking on Spezza is that he will return after the Olympic break in February.
Nick Foligno's name came up in a rumour sent my way this morning. Word is a couple Western Conference teams may have inquired about Foligno. Reality is the Senators are in no position to be trading forward depth right now so this doesn't make any sense.
Monday, December 28, 2009
MASSIVE Two Points
Just a huge win tonight for the Ottawa Senators over a team that was nipping at their heels in the Eastern Conference.
The Sens rode a stellar goaltending performance from Pascal Leclaire on route to a 4-2 victory in front of a rowdy SBP sell out.
Certainly wasn't the start Clouston's bunch was hoping for as they got down by a couple in the opening frame. Full credit to the coaching staff though as they made some good adjustments after 20 and got things settled down a little bit.
A lo of the talk in this one is about the "no goal" late in the second period. Chris Neil was ruled to be too deep in the crease. Am I crazy or did the NHL not remove this rule over a decade ago? There was zero contact between Neil and Halak making this a good goal in my books.
Despite what the Sportsnet guys said, this is not a rule that is being called in this league right now. Fraser should come out and explain this one because it really was baffling.
Anyway, just a very solid outing tonight from the home town Senators and a first rate performance from Pascal Leclaire! Hang on Snoopy indeed!
Until tomorrow...
GO SENS GO!!
The Sens rode a stellar goaltending performance from Pascal Leclaire on route to a 4-2 victory in front of a rowdy SBP sell out.
Certainly wasn't the start Clouston's bunch was hoping for as they got down by a couple in the opening frame. Full credit to the coaching staff though as they made some good adjustments after 20 and got things settled down a little bit.
A lo of the talk in this one is about the "no goal" late in the second period. Chris Neil was ruled to be too deep in the crease. Am I crazy or did the NHL not remove this rule over a decade ago? There was zero contact between Neil and Halak making this a good goal in my books.
Despite what the Sportsnet guys said, this is not a rule that is being called in this league right now. Fraser should come out and explain this one because it really was baffling.
Anyway, just a very solid outing tonight from the home town Senators and a first rate performance from Pascal Leclaire! Hang on Snoopy indeed!
Until tomorrow...
GO SENS GO!!
Live Blog Tonight
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that there will be a live blog of tonight's game over at theScore.com.
Hope to see some of you over there!
Hope to see some of you over there!
Game Day vs. Montreal
(UPDATE 1:15 PM)- Here is your weekly prospect update courtesy of the Senators official twitter feed.
The Ottawa Senators will look to build on a solid team effort in Buffalo the other night when they host the surging Montreal Canadiens at Scotiabank Place.
The Habs, winners of four straight, sit just a single point behind the 6th place Senators making this another one of those four point games. A win would give the Sens a three point edge with a couple games in hand on the Canadiens.
Even though the Senators sit 6th in the East they are just two points clear of the 9th place Rangers and just 5 clear of the 14th place Maple Leafs. Every game is so critical with the East as tight as it is.
The Senators will go with the same line up as they did in Buffalo meaning Erik Karlsson will be a healthy scratch in favour of Chris Campoli.
Here's a look at the patch work forward combinations...
Shannon-Fisher-Kovalev
Michalek-Regin-Neil
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Keller-Winchester Donovan
Leclaire will get the nod in goal for the third straight game.
While many are expecting Murray to make a desperation trade with the recent rash of injuries it seems unlikely at this point. The names most often rumoured (Kelly, Shannon, Picard) are all going to be relied on to play important minutes the next little while.
The Senators depth up front is being tested right now so unless Murray is willing to move a prospect or a pick (a bad idea in my opinion), it's unlikely he can make a trade.
It's up to the guys that are on this roster to come together and find a way to hold the fort until Spezza and Alfredsson can return.
I'll be making my final picks for Team Canada over on GOLD RUSH today. Stop by to discuss and share your selections!
The Ottawa Senators will look to build on a solid team effort in Buffalo the other night when they host the surging Montreal Canadiens at Scotiabank Place.
The Habs, winners of four straight, sit just a single point behind the 6th place Senators making this another one of those four point games. A win would give the Sens a three point edge with a couple games in hand on the Canadiens.
Even though the Senators sit 6th in the East they are just two points clear of the 9th place Rangers and just 5 clear of the 14th place Maple Leafs. Every game is so critical with the East as tight as it is.
The Senators will go with the same line up as they did in Buffalo meaning Erik Karlsson will be a healthy scratch in favour of Chris Campoli.
Here's a look at the patch work forward combinations...
Shannon-Fisher-Kovalev
Michalek-Regin-Neil
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Keller-Winchester Donovan
Leclaire will get the nod in goal for the third straight game.
While many are expecting Murray to make a desperation trade with the recent rash of injuries it seems unlikely at this point. The names most often rumoured (Kelly, Shannon, Picard) are all going to be relied on to play important minutes the next little while.
The Senators depth up front is being tested right now so unless Murray is willing to move a prospect or a pick (a bad idea in my opinion), it's unlikely he can make a trade.
It's up to the guys that are on this roster to come together and find a way to hold the fort until Spezza and Alfredsson can return.
I'll be making my final picks for Team Canada over on GOLD RUSH today. Stop by to discuss and share your selections!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Chirp of the Week
Alright folks here is this week's winner. There is a lot of Bryan Murray talk on this site as of late so this rant seemed appropriate. If you'd like to see your rant featured on SensChirp send it in the sensrumours@hotmail.com
Here is what Andrew had to say...
How quickly we all forget... To go along the lines of this (last weeks) rant, shame on all of you who have thrown Bryan Murray under the bus. Maybe you should do a little research before you go spouting off.
Bryan Murray is a winner thru and thru, and knows how to build not just champions, but lasting success. Murray was the man who built the expansion Florida Panthers into a Stanley Cup contender in their first year of existence. An expansion team playing in a major championship is an unprecedented achievement in ANY professional sport.
In a lesser example, while Murray wasn't there for any of the major success, he was instrumental in taking the wreck of the Detroit Red Wings and completely changing the culture of that team.
It was but 3 seasons ago, that yes, TWO Bryan teams met in the Stanley Cup final. Ok, so yes, Burke brings in 2 obvious deadline signings and takes all the credit for a championship, but, we all know that the core of the Ducks was drafted and built pretty much single handedly by Murray.
For all the haters, It wasn't Brian Murray, who chose to let Chara walk, and who didn't want to pay Hossa what he really did deserve at that point, or who brought in Gerber, or who canned Martin or who couldn't bring this team to the promise land.
What has Bryan Murray done for the Senators? Brought Stanley Cup final play to Ontario for the first time in 40 years, and done a remarkable job of salvaging a team that could have been a disaster as a result of the salary cap.
Mark my words friends, with the core we have now, you just wait and see in a few years when these Murray draft picks come to fruition...
Am I excited now and for the future? Hell Ya. Kudos Murray, you the man!
Here is what Andrew had to say...
How quickly we all forget... To go along the lines of this (last weeks) rant, shame on all of you who have thrown Bryan Murray under the bus. Maybe you should do a little research before you go spouting off.
Bryan Murray is a winner thru and thru, and knows how to build not just champions, but lasting success. Murray was the man who built the expansion Florida Panthers into a Stanley Cup contender in their first year of existence. An expansion team playing in a major championship is an unprecedented achievement in ANY professional sport.
In a lesser example, while Murray wasn't there for any of the major success, he was instrumental in taking the wreck of the Detroit Red Wings and completely changing the culture of that team.
It was but 3 seasons ago, that yes, TWO Bryan teams met in the Stanley Cup final. Ok, so yes, Burke brings in 2 obvious deadline signings and takes all the credit for a championship, but, we all know that the core of the Ducks was drafted and built pretty much single handedly by Murray.
For all the haters, It wasn't Brian Murray, who chose to let Chara walk, and who didn't want to pay Hossa what he really did deserve at that point, or who brought in Gerber, or who canned Martin or who couldn't bring this team to the promise land.
What has Bryan Murray done for the Senators? Brought Stanley Cup final play to Ontario for the first time in 40 years, and done a remarkable job of salvaging a team that could have been a disaster as a result of the salary cap.
Mark my words friends, with the core we have now, you just wait and see in a few years when these Murray draft picks come to fruition...
Am I excited now and for the future? Hell Ya. Kudos Murray, you the man!
Holiday Wrap Up
Huge win last night by our Sens. Really impressed with the way the team came together with their two stars out of the line up.
Sorry about the lack of posts and updated information on here lately. Like the rest of you, I've been pretty busy with family and Christmas related stuff. Things have started to settle down though and I'm ready to get back to work!
I'll be posting a Chirp of the Week later on this afternoon...
Thanks for your patience everyone and Happy Holidays!
Sorry about the lack of posts and updated information on here lately. Like the rest of you, I've been pretty busy with family and Christmas related stuff. Things have started to settle down though and I'm ready to get back to work!
I'll be posting a Chirp of the Week later on this afternoon...
Thanks for your patience everyone and Happy Holidays!
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Update on Alfredsson- 4 weeks
I tried my best to deflect the anger following the loss the other night but some of you just aren't in the holiday spirit I guess!
Anyway, there is no official update although the Ottawa Sun did just post an article that suggests the Captain will be out for four weeks. An offcial update is expected in Buffalo tomorrow morning. Alfredsson had his shoulder in a sling after the game against Pittsburgh.
Certainly not great news for a team already down a number one centre for a prolonged period of time.
There are going to be those of you that clamour for a trade after this but I really don't think that's the best idea for the Senators going forward. No trade Bryan Murray can make will replace Daniel Alfredsson and/or Jason Spezza.
They need to come together as a team during this difficult time and just try to win some hockey games.
The Senators have put themselves in a decent position in the East standings and just need to grind out two points whenever they can until the heart and soul of this team can get healthy again.
It's not gonna be easy but if there was ever a time this team needed support from the fans this is it.
Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season!
GO SENS GO
Anyway, there is no official update although the Ottawa Sun did just post an article that suggests the Captain will be out for four weeks. An offcial update is expected in Buffalo tomorrow morning. Alfredsson had his shoulder in a sling after the game against Pittsburgh.
Certainly not great news for a team already down a number one centre for a prolonged period of time.
There are going to be those of you that clamour for a trade after this but I really don't think that's the best idea for the Senators going forward. No trade Bryan Murray can make will replace Daniel Alfredsson and/or Jason Spezza.
They need to come together as a team during this difficult time and just try to win some hockey games.
The Senators have put themselves in a decent position in the East standings and just need to grind out two points whenever they can until the heart and soul of this team can get healthy again.
It's not gonna be easy but if there was ever a time this team needed support from the fans this is it.
Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season!
GO SENS GO
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Happy Holidays...
Nothin to say after that one. I'm sure everyone can do my analysis for me.
Merry Christmas everyone and a happy holidays to all the readers here on SensChirp.
Merry Christmas everyone and a happy holidays to all the readers here on SensChirp.
Live Blog Tonight...
Big game for the Senators tonight as they hope to head into the holiday break on a winning note.
Pascal Leclaire gets the start for Ottawa. Chris Neil and Shean Donovan return to the line up. Should be a good one.
I'll be live blogging this one for theScore.com. Hope to see you over there...
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Senators_vs_Penguins
Pascal Leclaire gets the start for Ottawa. Chris Neil and Shean Donovan return to the line up. Should be a good one.
I'll be live blogging this one for theScore.com. Hope to see you over there...
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Senators_vs_Penguins
Snoopy Returns (Neil and Donovan too!)
(UPDATE 12:18 PM)- In a surprise move, the Senators have added Shean Donovan to the line up in place of Chris Campoli. Very impressive comeback by Donovan
The Ottawa Senators will get a boost tonight with the return of their starting goalie, Pascal Leclaire. Leclaire has missed the last 17 games with a fractured cheekbone but is finally ready to return against the defending champs in Pittsburgh.
The good news doesn't stop there for the Sens as they will also get Chris Neil back from his knee injury. Hennessy was sent down yesterday to make room for Neil. Few changes in the forward combinations, including Jonathan Cheechoo getting a chance to play with Fisher and Kovalev.
Michalek-Regin-Alfredsson
Cheechoo-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
Donovan-Winchester-Shannon
Should be interesting to see how the refs react to the Senators latest campaign against the officiating. Murray was on the phone again after another clean night from Sens opposition. It was the third time this year that the Senators have gone a full game without a power play.
Complaining isn't likely going to get the results they are hoping for but what else can they do at this point?
The Senators are of till the 26th and return from the holiday break with a game against the Sabres in Buffalo. I'll be live blogging this one for theScore.com, so you can expect the link a little later today.
SensChirp on Twitter
Olympic Hockey Talk- GOLD RUSH
The Ottawa Senators will get a boost tonight with the return of their starting goalie, Pascal Leclaire. Leclaire has missed the last 17 games with a fractured cheekbone but is finally ready to return against the defending champs in Pittsburgh.
The good news doesn't stop there for the Sens as they will also get Chris Neil back from his knee injury. Hennessy was sent down yesterday to make room for Neil. Few changes in the forward combinations, including Jonathan Cheechoo getting a chance to play with Fisher and Kovalev.
Michalek-Regin-Alfredsson
Cheechoo-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Neil
Donovan-Winchester-Shannon
Should be interesting to see how the refs react to the Senators latest campaign against the officiating. Murray was on the phone again after another clean night from Sens opposition. It was the third time this year that the Senators have gone a full game without a power play.
Complaining isn't likely going to get the results they are hoping for but what else can they do at this point?
The Senators are of till the 26th and return from the holiday break with a game against the Sabres in Buffalo. I'll be live blogging this one for theScore.com, so you can expect the link a little later today.
SensChirp on Twitter
Olympic Hockey Talk- GOLD RUSH
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Brodeur and Hennessy to Bingo
The Ottawa Senators will get an early Christmas present tomorrow night when Pascal Leclaire returns to the Senators line up after a 16 game absence.
With Mike Brodeur and Josh Hennessy being returned to Binghamton today, it looks as though Leclaire and Chris Neil will return as scheduled tomorrow night.
Leclaire practiced with the team yesterday and today and if everything goes according to plan, the Sens will have their number one stopper in net when they visit the defending champs in Pittsburgh on Wednesday night.
If that's not enough, the Senators are also hoping to have tough guy Chris Neil back in the line up for tomorrow night. There have been times during his absence that you could really see the Senators missed a guy like Neil.
Aside from Winchester and Fisher there really isn't much of a physical presence up front so the return of Neil and Shean Donovan in another week or so should really give the Senators a boost.
Nick Foligno is probably about another week away.
The game tomorrow against the Penguins is the Senators last before the holiday break.
Olympic Hockey Talk- GOLD RUSH
With Mike Brodeur and Josh Hennessy being returned to Binghamton today, it looks as though Leclaire and Chris Neil will return as scheduled tomorrow night.
Leclaire practiced with the team yesterday and today and if everything goes according to plan, the Sens will have their number one stopper in net when they visit the defending champs in Pittsburgh on Wednesday night.
If that's not enough, the Senators are also hoping to have tough guy Chris Neil back in the line up for tomorrow night. There have been times during his absence that you could really see the Senators missed a guy like Neil.
Aside from Winchester and Fisher there really isn't much of a physical presence up front so the return of Neil and Shean Donovan in another week or so should really give the Senators a boost.
Nick Foligno is probably about another week away.
The game tomorrow against the Penguins is the Senators last before the holiday break.
Olympic Hockey Talk- GOLD RUSH
Monday, December 21, 2009
Bruins Take Tight Checking Affair
This really was a game that could have gone either way.
Through 40 minutes the two teams were dead locked at zero and both goalies had been sharp. Rebounds and second chance opportunities were at a premium in what was a very tight checking defensive-minded hockey game.
But in the third period the Senators just seemed to run out of gas and couldn't get much of anything going. Tim Thomas continued his dominance of Ottawa but the Sens made life pretty easy for him in the third period registering just six shots in the final frame.
For the third time this season the opposition played a perfectly clean game against the Ottawa Senators. Truly baffling that the Bruins were not called for a single penalty in this one although at this point I guess we should be used to this from the officials.
Chara is a great defenceman but I counted at least three instances where he could have been given a penalty.
Ah well. Tough one coming up on Wednesday against Pittsburgh. Hope to have Leclaire and Neil back for that one.
Until tomorrow...
Gold Rush
SensChirp on Twitter
Through 40 minutes the two teams were dead locked at zero and both goalies had been sharp. Rebounds and second chance opportunities were at a premium in what was a very tight checking defensive-minded hockey game.
But in the third period the Senators just seemed to run out of gas and couldn't get much of anything going. Tim Thomas continued his dominance of Ottawa but the Sens made life pretty easy for him in the third period registering just six shots in the final frame.
For the third time this season the opposition played a perfectly clean game against the Ottawa Senators. Truly baffling that the Bruins were not called for a single penalty in this one although at this point I guess we should be used to this from the officials.
Chara is a great defenceman but I counted at least three instances where he could have been given a penalty.
Ah well. Tough one coming up on Wednesday against Pittsburgh. Hope to have Leclaire and Neil back for that one.
Until tomorrow...
Gold Rush
SensChirp on Twitter
Live Blog Tonight
Big game tonight at Scotiabank Place.
The Bruins are just a single point behind the Senators in the tight Eastern Conference so this is definitely one of those four point games you hear about.
I'll be live bloggin' this one for theScore.com
See you over there!
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Bruins_vs_Senators
The Bruins are just a single point behind the Senators in the tight Eastern Conference so this is definitely one of those four point games you hear about.
I'll be live bloggin' this one for theScore.com
See you over there!
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Bruins_vs_Senators
Game Day (Fisher/Underwood Engaged)
(UPDATE 12:24 PM)- Here is the weekly prospect update courtesy of the Sens Twitter feed.
(UPDATE 11:10 AM)- I suppose some congratulations are in order. The Ottawa Sun is reporting that Mike Fisher and Carrie Underwood are engaged to be married. Whatever keeps Fisher producing offensively sounds good to me! Congrats to Mike Fisher.
Huge game tonight for the Ottawa Senators as they play host to Northeast rival, the Boston Bruins.
(UPDATE 11:10 AM)- I suppose some congratulations are in order. The Ottawa Sun is reporting that Mike Fisher and Carrie Underwood are engaged to be married. Whatever keeps Fisher producing offensively sounds good to me! Congrats to Mike Fisher.
Huge game tonight for the Ottawa Senators as they play host to Northeast rival, the Boston Bruins.
The Bruins are nipping at the Sens heels in the Eastern Conference and currently sit just a single point behind Ottawa in the conference standings.
Great news for Donovan considering it looked like his season could be over shortly after the knee injury he suffered.
Chris Neil isn't far off either.
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-CheechooCampoli-Hennessy-Shannon
With the NHL roster freeze in effect the rumours should quiet down the time being. There's still a hole or two for Bryan Murray to plug in this line up but that will likely have to wait until the New Year.
Not sure if there's a live blog tonight or not but check in later for an update.
http://goldrush2010.blogspot.com
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Chirp of the Week
Alright folks, time for this week's Chirp of the Week. If you'd like to see your rant featured on the site just send it in to sensrumours@hotmail.com.
This week we feature a rant from a reader named J-Rock. It's another comment on the fans in Ottawa and goes well with the report we discussed from the Ottawa Citizen yesterday.
Have you thought about installing a panic button on your site?
Every time somebody uses it they get free Valium. It seems our fans are just as bad as Leaf and Habs fan. A bad game and we stone the player in the village square. A good game and we make him King.
I found you're site last spring and it was better then. These days it's like a day time soap. It has gone to poutine. Trying to recommend a poutine shack to that guy was funny. What happens now is not.
People criticizing Carkner now? We have needed a player in the Randy Cunneyworth, Lance Pitlick mould for years. Here he is, quick criticize him! This team, as do all sport clubs, has problems. Demitra, Yashin, the Havlat/Heatley "trades", the Chara/Redden none trades, Bankruptcy! I think we even let a GM out of his contract for draft picks.
People forget Yashin to Duchesne...GOAL!!!! We're in the playoffs! Damian Rhodes beating Martin Brodeur for our first series win. The first conference finals against New Jersey and Spezza's 3 point night. He was our hero, our next hero. Now we crucify him.
It's all Bryan Murray's fault is it? Melnyk is too involved in the managing of the team, is he? Only one post in the last six months has mentioned the "legacy" that Murray is rebuilding. I thank Melnyk for Saving our team. I use "we" and "our" instead of "the" or "them" because this is OUR TEAM.
Fans should be disappointed, even angry sometimes, when WE don't play well. That's what fans do, but you can't change you're family and without Our Ottawa Senators this city would be very small. I may not be thrilled all the time with our team, but I never hate.
Thanks for all your efforts Chirp.
J-Rock
This week we feature a rant from a reader named J-Rock. It's another comment on the fans in Ottawa and goes well with the report we discussed from the Ottawa Citizen yesterday.
Have you thought about installing a panic button on your site?
Every time somebody uses it they get free Valium. It seems our fans are just as bad as Leaf and Habs fan. A bad game and we stone the player in the village square. A good game and we make him King.
I found you're site last spring and it was better then. These days it's like a day time soap. It has gone to poutine. Trying to recommend a poutine shack to that guy was funny. What happens now is not.
People criticizing Carkner now? We have needed a player in the Randy Cunneyworth, Lance Pitlick mould for years. Here he is, quick criticize him! This team, as do all sport clubs, has problems. Demitra, Yashin, the Havlat/Heatley "trades", the Chara/Redden none trades, Bankruptcy! I think we even let a GM out of his contract for draft picks.
People forget Yashin to Duchesne...GOAL!!!! We're in the playoffs! Damian Rhodes beating Martin Brodeur for our first series win. The first conference finals against New Jersey and Spezza's 3 point night. He was our hero, our next hero. Now we crucify him.
It's all Bryan Murray's fault is it? Melnyk is too involved in the managing of the team, is he? Only one post in the last six months has mentioned the "legacy" that Murray is rebuilding. I thank Melnyk for Saving our team. I use "we" and "our" instead of "the" or "them" because this is OUR TEAM.
Fans should be disappointed, even angry sometimes, when WE don't play well. That's what fans do, but you can't change you're family and without Our Ottawa Senators this city would be very small. I may not be thrilled all the time with our team, but I never hate.
Thanks for all your efforts Chirp.
J-Rock
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Staggering Attendance Drop- (Brodeur to Start)
(UPDATE 11:25 AM)- Rather than post an entire game day thread I think I'll leave this attendance topic up. Should make for some good discussion.
The Senators will make just the one line up change tonight. Mike Brodeur will make his first NHL start on home ice against the Wild. Mike Brodeur fans, Rejoice!
An exclusive story in this morning's Ottawa Citizen reveals just how drastic the drop in paid attendance has been at Scotiabank Place so far this season.
The Senators organization is giving out three times as many free tickets as they did last year meaning Ottawa has suffered the third largest paid attendance drop in the NHL. Only the Phoenix Coyotes and Tampa Bay Lightning have been worse.
I think we all knew the attendance was down this year but these numbers are truly stunning. To read the entire Citizen exclusive, click here.
More game day information in a little bit...
The Senators will make just the one line up change tonight. Mike Brodeur will make his first NHL start on home ice against the Wild. Mike Brodeur fans, Rejoice!
An exclusive story in this morning's Ottawa Citizen reveals just how drastic the drop in paid attendance has been at Scotiabank Place so far this season.
The Senators organization is giving out three times as many free tickets as they did last year meaning Ottawa has suffered the third largest paid attendance drop in the NHL. Only the Phoenix Coyotes and Tampa Bay Lightning have been worse.
I think we all knew the attendance was down this year but these numbers are truly stunning. To read the entire Citizen exclusive, click here.
More game day information in a little bit...
Friday, December 18, 2009
Live Blog Tonight
I'll be live blogging the game tonight for the Score. Here's the link...
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Senators_vs_Devils2
Really bizarre incident unfolding at Scotiabank Place today. Apparently a Minnesota equipment truck caught on fire and a bunch of equipment has been lost including all of the gear belonging to goaltender Niklas Backstrom.
The league is looking into the incident right now.
According to Brent Wallace and CTV news, the Ottawa Fire Department was on the scene for over 40 minutes and all of the gear has been destroyed.
Really, really strange.
http://liveblogs.thescore.com/Event/NHL_-_Senators_vs_Devils2
Really bizarre incident unfolding at Scotiabank Place today. Apparently a Minnesota equipment truck caught on fire and a bunch of equipment has been lost including all of the gear belonging to goaltender Niklas Backstrom.
The league is looking into the incident right now.
According to Brent Wallace and CTV news, the Ottawa Fire Department was on the scene for over 40 minutes and all of the gear has been destroyed.
Really, really strange.
Tough Road Test in Jersey
Another big one for the Senators tonight as they pay a visit to Martin Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils.
The Senators are still pretty banged up so it'll take another solid team effort to get the two points tonight.
The fact that the Senators are on the road and visiting the already boring New Jersey Devils make this the perfect storm for what could be the most boring hockey game of all time.
Although two points is two points in this league.
No line up changes expected meaning the Senators will ice the same line up that beat the Sabres the other night.
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Campoli-Hennessey-Shannon
Brian Elliott will get the call in goal once again. His 14th straight start in the Ottawa net. He's expected to get the night off tomorrow when the Sens return home to play the Minnesota Wild.
Pascal Leclaire was actually on the ice with his teammates this morning for the first time since suffering that broken cheekbone. His return is not far off.
The NHL's Holiday roster freeze kicks in late tonight so it appears as though the Senators roster is set for the time being. With all the injuries as of late, the Senators are so tight to the cap and realy couldn't make a move unless the contracts evened out.
Highly unlikely...
The Senators are still pretty banged up so it'll take another solid team effort to get the two points tonight.
The fact that the Senators are on the road and visiting the already boring New Jersey Devils make this the perfect storm for what could be the most boring hockey game of all time.
Although two points is two points in this league.
No line up changes expected meaning the Senators will ice the same line up that beat the Sabres the other night.
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Campoli-Hennessey-Shannon
Brian Elliott will get the call in goal once again. His 14th straight start in the Ottawa net. He's expected to get the night off tomorrow when the Sens return home to play the Minnesota Wild.
Pascal Leclaire was actually on the ice with his teammates this morning for the first time since suffering that broken cheekbone. His return is not far off.
The NHL's Holiday roster freeze kicks in late tonight so it appears as though the Senators roster is set for the time being. With all the injuries as of late, the Senators are so tight to the cap and realy couldn't make a move unless the contracts evened out.
Highly unlikely...
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Fan Forum-Highlights
Had a chance to listen to the fan forum today and here are a couple of the things that stood out from the call.
ON INJURIES
Bryan Murray opened the call by talking about injuries. They expect Pascal Leclaire and Chris Neil to both potentially return for the Dec. 23 game. Shean Donovan skated this morning apparently and is apparently a couple weeks away.
As mentioned earlier the injury to Nick Foligno is a slight tear of the meniscus and will keep him out a couple weeks.
ON PROSPECTS
-Murray also talked about prospects a little bit and in particular the three players that will play in the World Junior Tournament. Murray talked about Andre Petersson who he described as a hard working Alfredsson type player.
-Murray also mentioned Team Canada defenceman Jared Cowen and said that they fully expect him to compete for a spot with the NHL team next season. Patrick Wiercioch was expected to make the team as well but suffered a slight MCL tear that kept him off the roster.
ON VOLCHENKOV
-On a Volchenkov extension Murray said that they have had just one brief conversation with the Volchenkov camp and that's as far as things have gone. They would love to keep Volchenkov in the fold though
ON BRIAN LEE
-Murray also touched briefly on the Brian Lee situation. The Sens GM said there have been no discussion with the Blue Jackets regarding Lee and that there is no interest in making a play for Filatov with no guarantee he will return from Russia.
Lee is currently in Ottawa rehabing a back injury and is hoping to return to action with Bingo on the 26th.
ON THE SALARY CAP
-Murray also said there is no plan to place Jason Spezza on the long term IR for cap relief. Ottawa is pretty tight to the cap with all the injuries right now and that had a lot to do with not calling someone up after the injury to Foligno.
Team President Cyril Leeder also talked at length about some of the changes announced today for season ticket holders. For a summary of those changes click here.
ON INJURIES
Bryan Murray opened the call by talking about injuries. They expect Pascal Leclaire and Chris Neil to both potentially return for the Dec. 23 game. Shean Donovan skated this morning apparently and is apparently a couple weeks away.
As mentioned earlier the injury to Nick Foligno is a slight tear of the meniscus and will keep him out a couple weeks.
ON PROSPECTS
-Murray also talked about prospects a little bit and in particular the three players that will play in the World Junior Tournament. Murray talked about Andre Petersson who he described as a hard working Alfredsson type player.
-Murray also mentioned Team Canada defenceman Jared Cowen and said that they fully expect him to compete for a spot with the NHL team next season. Patrick Wiercioch was expected to make the team as well but suffered a slight MCL tear that kept him off the roster.
ON VOLCHENKOV
-On a Volchenkov extension Murray said that they have had just one brief conversation with the Volchenkov camp and that's as far as things have gone. They would love to keep Volchenkov in the fold though
ON BRIAN LEE
-Murray also touched briefly on the Brian Lee situation. The Sens GM said there have been no discussion with the Blue Jackets regarding Lee and that there is no interest in making a play for Filatov with no guarantee he will return from Russia.
Lee is currently in Ottawa rehabing a back injury and is hoping to return to action with Bingo on the 26th.
ON THE SALARY CAP
-Murray also said there is no plan to place Jason Spezza on the long term IR for cap relief. Ottawa is pretty tight to the cap with all the injuries right now and that had a lot to do with not calling someone up after the injury to Foligno.
Team President Cyril Leeder also talked at length about some of the changes announced today for season ticket holders. For a summary of those changes click here.
No Suspension for Ruutu
Just got word that there will apparently be no suspension for Ruutu's hit on Kaleta last night.
Ruutu will apparently receive a small fine but nothing else. I think the NHL made the right call on this one.
The hit was definitely vicious but there was nothing suspension worthy about it.
It's a contact sport folks...
Also, the Sens Twitter feed is saying Foligno will need scope surgery on his right knee and will be out the next two weeks.
Ruutu will apparently receive a small fine but nothing else. I think the NHL made the right call on this one.
The hit was definitely vicious but there was nothing suspension worthy about it.
It's a contact sport folks...
Also, the Sens Twitter feed is saying Foligno will need scope surgery on his right knee and will be out the next two weeks.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Solid Team Victory
The Ottawa Senators continued their strong play on home ice scoring a huge 2-0 win over the Buffalo Sabres and picking up another important two points.
Brian Elliott picked up his second shutout of the season and now has two goose eggs in his last four starts.
The Senators played a solid team game tonight and really seemed to rally around the loss of Jason Spezza. If not for Ryan Miller this game could have been ugly early on. Miller made some massive saves, especially in the first period.
Full credit to Chris Campoli in his debut as a forward. He did not look at all out of place and could have had a couple points on the night.
The game winner came on a soft yet well placed shot from Alex Picard.
Picard along with the other 5 Senators defenceman had a very solid outing tonight. They were careful with the puck all night and really cut down on the lapses that cost them against the Leafs.
Anton Volchenkov was banged up late in the second period but did return for the third.
Jarkko Ruutu took a 5 minute major in the second period when he ran Patrick Kaletta. At first glance I really didn't think there was anything particularly dirty about the play but the TSN guys seem to think he'll be suspended.
Guess we'll find out tomorrow.
Until then......
GO SENS GO
Brian Elliott picked up his second shutout of the season and now has two goose eggs in his last four starts.
The Senators played a solid team game tonight and really seemed to rally around the loss of Jason Spezza. If not for Ryan Miller this game could have been ugly early on. Miller made some massive saves, especially in the first period.
Full credit to Chris Campoli in his debut as a forward. He did not look at all out of place and could have had a couple points on the night.
The game winner came on a soft yet well placed shot from Alex Picard.
Picard along with the other 5 Senators defenceman had a very solid outing tonight. They were careful with the puck all night and really cut down on the lapses that cost them against the Leafs.
Anton Volchenkov was banged up late in the second period but did return for the third.
Jarkko Ruutu took a 5 minute major in the second period when he ran Patrick Kaletta. At first glance I really didn't think there was anything particularly dirty about the play but the TSN guys seem to think he'll be suspended.
Guess we'll find out tomorrow.
Until then......
GO SENS GO
Foligno Out, Campoli In-Spezza out 6-8 Weeks
(UPDATE 11:04 AM)- Update from Sportsnet's Ian Mendes. Spezza is out with a torn MCL and will miss 6-8 weeks. No surgery is required...
The Otawa Senators begin life without Jason Spezza tonight when they host Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabres at Scotiabank Place.
The injury woes have hit the Sens on another front as it's been announced that Nick Foligno will also be out tonight. In his place, defenceman Chris Campoli.
That's right, Campoli will play as a forward tonight and will skate on a line with Hennessey and Shannon.
The rest of the forward lines...
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Campoli-Hennessey-Shannon
Brian Elliott will make his 14th straight start in the Ottawa net. That run is expected to come to an end on Saturday when the Senators host the Wild. Clouston is expected to start Mike Brodeur for that one.
The Otawa Senators begin life without Jason Spezza tonight when they host Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabres at Scotiabank Place.
The injury woes have hit the Sens on another front as it's been announced that Nick Foligno will also be out tonight. In his place, defenceman Chris Campoli.
That's right, Campoli will play as a forward tonight and will skate on a line with Hennessey and Shannon.
The rest of the forward lines...
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Campoli-Hennessey-Shannon
Brian Elliott will make his 14th straight start in the Ottawa net. That run is expected to come to an end on Saturday when the Senators host the Wild. Clouston is expected to start Mike Brodeur for that one.
Congratulations Jared Cowen
Ottawa Senators prospect Jared Cowen has made the cut and will represent Team Canada in the World Junior Tournament in Saskatchewan.
Really looking forward to watching the Senators defensive prospect in action over the holidays. For the complete 22 man roster click here
Back with a game day post in a little bit.
Really looking forward to watching the Senators defensive prospect in action over the holidays. For the complete 22 man roster click here
Back with a game day post in a little bit.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
The Injury Situation
The injury to Jason Spezza is a major blow to the Ottawa Senators. This team hasn't been 100% at any point this season and will have to wait at least another 4-8 weeks for the return of their #1 centre.
The team is still waiting on the results of today tests...
The injury is particularly tough due to the obvious lack of depth at the centre position.
Hennessey has been called up for now but I really don't even know if he'll play centre. I would think it's going to be up to Mike Fisher, Chris Kelly, Peter Regin and in particular Jesse Winchester to carry the load while Spezza is out.
Losing a #1 centre is tough but from what I've heard so far today, it's unlikely the Senators will make a move to fill the void and will instead look internally. Jesse Winchester will be given a chance to step up and play some valuable minutes, potentially on a line with Michalek and Alfredsson.
Pascal Leclaire remains sidelined with his cheekbone injury and is expected back at some point next week from what I can tell. Potentially next weekend.
Chris Neil is probably the closest to rejoining the line up, with his return expected in the near future (Hopefully this weekend).
The Senators play three more times this week with games against the Sabres, Devils and Wild and then open next week with a Monday match up with the Bruins.
It's gutcheck time for our Ottawa Senators...
The team is still waiting on the results of today tests...
The injury is particularly tough due to the obvious lack of depth at the centre position.
Hennessey has been called up for now but I really don't even know if he'll play centre. I would think it's going to be up to Mike Fisher, Chris Kelly, Peter Regin and in particular Jesse Winchester to carry the load while Spezza is out.
Losing a #1 centre is tough but from what I've heard so far today, it's unlikely the Senators will make a move to fill the void and will instead look internally. Jesse Winchester will be given a chance to step up and play some valuable minutes, potentially on a line with Michalek and Alfredsson.
Pascal Leclaire remains sidelined with his cheekbone injury and is expected back at some point next week from what I can tell. Potentially next weekend.
Chris Neil is probably the closest to rejoining the line up, with his return expected in the near future (Hopefully this weekend).
The Senators play three more times this week with games against the Sabres, Devils and Wild and then open next week with a Monday match up with the Bruins.
It's gutcheck time for our Ottawa Senators...
Hennessey Recalled (Spezza "Serious Right Knee Injury")
(UPDATE 12:20 PM)- James Gordon of the Ottawa Citizen says in his piece that it's an injury that will not require surgey but could keep him out up to 8 weeks.
(UPDATE 11:52 AM)- Clouston said this morning that Spezza suffered a "serious right knee injury" and they won't know the extent of it until some tests can be done. Happy now Spezza haters? Prepare for life without him...
The Ottawa Senators announced this morning that they have recalled forward Josh Hennessey from the Binghamton Senators.
It's believed he will replace the injured Jason Spezza who left late last night against the Leafs. Spezza rolled his ankle pretty bad after a face off and was apparently seen hobbling around after the game last night.
Chris Phillips, Nick Foligno, Chris Kelly and of course Jason Spezza were all off the ice this morning. Hennessey was out there with the team.
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Shannon-Cheechoo-Hennessey
More coming later on...
(UPDATE 11:52 AM)- Clouston said this morning that Spezza suffered a "serious right knee injury" and they won't know the extent of it until some tests can be done. Happy now Spezza haters? Prepare for life without him...
The Ottawa Senators announced this morning that they have recalled forward Josh Hennessey from the Binghamton Senators.
It's believed he will replace the injured Jason Spezza who left late last night against the Leafs. Spezza rolled his ankle pretty bad after a face off and was apparently seen hobbling around after the game last night.
Chris Phillips, Nick Foligno, Chris Kelly and of course Jason Spezza were all off the ice this morning. Hennessey was out there with the team.
Regin-Fisher-Kovalev
Michalek-Winchester-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Shannon-Cheechoo-Hennessey
More coming later on...
Monday, December 14, 2009
Tough Loss
I actually thought the Senators were the better team for large portions of this game but a couple weak goals and way too many defensive lapses led to the Leafs picking up the two points.
Ottawa is back at it on Wednesday when they take on Sabres back at Scotiabank Place.
But why dwell on the negatives?
Game Day in Toronto
(UPDATE 6:57 PM)- The Senators announced today that Erik Karlsson will not participate in this year's World Junior Tournament. Seems like the right call for his development as an NHL player.
(UPDATE 12:49 PM)- Here is the weekly Prospect Update from the Sens Twitter feed.
(UPDATE 12:25 PM)- Bob McKenzie is reporting that Carolina defenceman Aaron Ward has been placed on waivers. McKenzie expects Ward to clear and then be place on re-entry where someone could take him for half price. Ottawa has been rumoured to have an interest in Ward in the past.
The Ottawa Senators will shoot for their third straight victory tonight when they pay a visit to the suddenly competent Leafs at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto.
The Leafs are 7-3-0 in their last ten and have been much better as of late. They now sit just 4 points out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and have been playing much better lately.
However, they do still sit 29th in the 30 team league.
Meanwhile, Ottawa is coming off wins over the Flyers and Hurricanes and will be looking to continue their winning ways against the hated Leafs. The Sens played a strong game at home against the Canes but will need to be better against an improved Leafs squad.
No line up changes are expected for the Senators meaning the combinations will look something like this.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Kovalev-Fisher-Foligno
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Phillips-Volchenkov
Kuba-Karlsson
Picard-Carkner
Brian Elliott will make his 13th straight start in the Senators net. Vesa Toskala is expected to start for the Leafs.
Here are the game notes for tonight's game courtesy of the Senators Official Twitter feed.
If you're looking for a place to discuss issues related to Team Canada, stop by Gold Rush. Today we'll talk about Mike Fisher and his chances of making the team.
Lastly, a reader sent this survey to me yesterday to see if some SensChirp readers could help him out. Fill it out if you have a chance. Takes 5 minutes tops.
Much appreciated!
(UPDATE 12:49 PM)- Here is the weekly Prospect Update from the Sens Twitter feed.
(UPDATE 12:25 PM)- Bob McKenzie is reporting that Carolina defenceman Aaron Ward has been placed on waivers. McKenzie expects Ward to clear and then be place on re-entry where someone could take him for half price. Ottawa has been rumoured to have an interest in Ward in the past.
The Ottawa Senators will shoot for their third straight victory tonight when they pay a visit to the suddenly competent Leafs at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto.
The Leafs are 7-3-0 in their last ten and have been much better as of late. They now sit just 4 points out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and have been playing much better lately.
However, they do still sit 29th in the 30 team league.
Meanwhile, Ottawa is coming off wins over the Flyers and Hurricanes and will be looking to continue their winning ways against the hated Leafs. The Sens played a strong game at home against the Canes but will need to be better against an improved Leafs squad.
No line up changes are expected for the Senators meaning the combinations will look something like this.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Kovalev-Fisher-Foligno
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Phillips-Volchenkov
Kuba-Karlsson
Picard-Carkner
Brian Elliott will make his 13th straight start in the Senators net. Vesa Toskala is expected to start for the Leafs.
Here are the game notes for tonight's game courtesy of the Senators Official Twitter feed.
If you're looking for a place to discuss issues related to Team Canada, stop by Gold Rush. Today we'll talk about Mike Fisher and his chances of making the team.
Lastly, a reader sent this survey to me yesterday to see if some SensChirp readers could help him out. Fill it out if you have a chance. Takes 5 minutes tops.
Much appreciated!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Get Well Soon Gerber
(UPDATE 10:51 AM)- Thanks to all of you who pointed this out. It seems as though Gerber's injury is not as bad as they originally thought and his recovery could take weeks instead of months. Great news for Gerber!
Read this story over on the HF boards...
Very scary incident involving former Senators goaltender Martin Gerber in a recent KHL game over in Russia.
Gerber was hospitalized after suffering a serious neck injury in a game on December 13. He was taken off the ice on a stretcher and apparently suffered a compression fracture in his cervical verterbra.
Gerber is expected to be away from the game for at least 6 months and could spend the next two months in the hospital.
Martin Gerber was a terrific team player with this organization and it's just awful to see this happen to such a nice guy.
Just wanted to wish Gerber all the best in his recovery.
Good Luck Gerbs...
Read this story over on the HF boards...
Very scary incident involving former Senators goaltender Martin Gerber in a recent KHL game over in Russia.
Gerber was hospitalized after suffering a serious neck injury in a game on December 13. He was taken off the ice on a stretcher and apparently suffered a compression fracture in his cervical verterbra.
Gerber is expected to be away from the game for at least 6 months and could spend the next two months in the hospital.
Martin Gerber was a terrific team player with this organization and it's just awful to see this happen to such a nice guy.
Just wanted to wish Gerber all the best in his recovery.
Good Luck Gerbs...
Slow Sunday
Not much going on today in the world of the Ottawa Senators...
The Sen were off the ice today and will be back at it tomorrow when they visit the suddenly streaking Toronto Maple Leafs.
I was hoping to have another "Chirp of the Week" to post today but there haven't been any sent in the last little while. If you would like to have your rant featured here on SensChirp send it to sensrumours@hotmail.com and I'll try and get it up next Sunday.
A couple pieces of Senators related news. According to Brent Wallace of TSN, Senators prospect Patrick Wiercioch has been sent back to Denver and will not participate in the World Junior Camp after all. Wiercioch has a pre-existing knee injury that will keep him out of the selection camp.
Too bad. I was looking forward to a Team Canada defence that featured Wiercioch and first round pick Jared Cowen. Wiercioch is being replaced 67's defenceman Tyler Cuma.
As many of you have already heard, Sens centre Jason Spezza is selling his $7 million dollar home on Island Park. Spezza has said he will not comment on the issue but it's sure to fuel unfounded speculation in the city.
I would assume he's just looking to move a little closer to the rink.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend folks...
The Sen were off the ice today and will be back at it tomorrow when they visit the suddenly streaking Toronto Maple Leafs.
I was hoping to have another "Chirp of the Week" to post today but there haven't been any sent in the last little while. If you would like to have your rant featured here on SensChirp send it to sensrumours@hotmail.com and I'll try and get it up next Sunday.
A couple pieces of Senators related news. According to Brent Wallace of TSN, Senators prospect Patrick Wiercioch has been sent back to Denver and will not participate in the World Junior Camp after all. Wiercioch has a pre-existing knee injury that will keep him out of the selection camp.
Too bad. I was looking forward to a Team Canada defence that featured Wiercioch and first round pick Jared Cowen. Wiercioch is being replaced 67's defenceman Tyler Cuma.
As many of you have already heard, Sens centre Jason Spezza is selling his $7 million dollar home on Island Park. Spezza has said he will not comment on the issue but it's sure to fuel unfounded speculation in the city.
I would assume he's just looking to move a little closer to the rink.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend folks...
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Kooovalev
I tell ya I could really get used to hearing Stuntman Stu say that at Scotiabank Place...
Kovalev scored three tonight as the Senators battled their way to a 4-2 victory over the lowly Carolina Hurricanes.
This was without a doubt, Alex Kovalev's best game in a Senators uniform. He was absolutely dominant all night and got rewarded with 3 markers including the game winner and an empty net goal to seal it.
The guy has taken a ton of heat in this city and to be honest I'm not sure how much of it was deserved. Sure the puck hasn't been going in for him but his presence on the second line has been instrumental to the success of Mike Fisher.
It's sure is nice to see Kovalev shooting the puck the last few games.
Kovalev will always have his critics and that's to be expected with his style of play. Fact is when he's on his game he is still a dominant player in this league and he showed that tonight.
The other lightning rod for criticism, Jason Spezza, also had a solid outing. Spezza scored a fluky goal but was much stronger on the puck than he has been and had a few nice set ups.
Brian Elliot turned in another solid performance and made a couple big time stops in the third period with the game tied and when Ottawa was up one.
Full credit to the Sens for a solid victory over the Hurricanes tonight.
GO SENS GO!
Kovalev scored three tonight as the Senators battled their way to a 4-2 victory over the lowly Carolina Hurricanes.
This was without a doubt, Alex Kovalev's best game in a Senators uniform. He was absolutely dominant all night and got rewarded with 3 markers including the game winner and an empty net goal to seal it.
The guy has taken a ton of heat in this city and to be honest I'm not sure how much of it was deserved. Sure the puck hasn't been going in for him but his presence on the second line has been instrumental to the success of Mike Fisher.
It's sure is nice to see Kovalev shooting the puck the last few games.
Kovalev will always have his critics and that's to be expected with his style of play. Fact is when he's on his game he is still a dominant player in this league and he showed that tonight.
The other lightning rod for criticism, Jason Spezza, also had a solid outing. Spezza scored a fluky goal but was much stronger on the puck than he has been and had a few nice set ups.
Brian Elliot turned in another solid performance and made a couple big time stops in the third period with the game tied and when Ottawa was up one.
Full credit to the Sens for a solid victory over the Hurricanes tonight.
GO SENS GO!
Game Day- Picard In, Campoli Out
The Ottawa Senators will host the Carolina Hurricanes tonight at Scotiabank Place and look to build on a solid defensive effort in Philly the other night.
Just the one line up change tonight as Alex Picard draws back into the line up and once again Chris Campoli comes out. A little bit surprising considering the improvement in Campoli's game the last little while
Other than that the line combinations remain the same.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Foligno-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott gets the nod in goal again.
The Hurricanes lost a heartbreaker in Washington last night so a fast start will be key in this one.
Carolina is expected to go with back up goaltender Manny Legace.
For those of you who haven't checked it out yet I've set up a new blog where we can discuss Olympic Hockey for the next little while.
Hope to see some of you over there...
Here is the link
Just the one line up change tonight as Alex Picard draws back into the line up and once again Chris Campoli comes out. A little bit surprising considering the improvement in Campoli's game the last little while
Other than that the line combinations remain the same.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Foligno-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott gets the nod in goal again.
The Hurricanes lost a heartbreaker in Washington last night so a fast start will be key in this one.
Carolina is expected to go with back up goaltender Manny Legace.
For those of you who haven't checked it out yet I've set up a new blog where we can discuss Olympic Hockey for the next little while.
Hope to see some of you over there...
Here is the link
Friday, December 11, 2009
Rumour Wrap Up and Happy Birthday Alfie
Le me open up today's post by saying Happy Birthday to our Captain Daniel Alfredsson!
The NHL's longest serving Captain and greatest player in franchise history turns 37 today. Each year I worry we'll start to see signs of age but he continues to produce at an elite level.
Happy Birthday Alfie...
To close out the week, I figured I'd post a few of the rumours I've come across as of late while also taking the time to address some of the other talk out there.
-One source I spoke with continues to push the idea of Teemu Selanne to Ottawa. He suggests a prospect like Cody Bass would be part of the package headed to Anaheim.
- Ottawa is still very much interested in Cam Barker. However, the Hawks no longer seem desperate to make a move. They would move Sopel if they could but even Brent Sopel has played well in Chicago this year.
- The Brian Lee situation is a strange one but it really seems as though there is a legitimate injury Lee is dealing with in the AHL. It's possible the Senators could still move him but that's obviously much more difficult with the current "lower-body" issue.
-Brian Lee, Chris Kelly and Ryan Shannon remain the most likely players to be moved.
-Very interesting rumour sent my way today. It was suggested that a couple disgruntled defenceman may be looking for a ticket out of Nashville. The names suggested were Shea Weber and Cody Franson.
Weber would be surprising but the rumour is he may want to play in Canada. Senators scouts have been following the Predators for awhile now. I can't even imagine what it would take to acquire a guy like Weber.
As always, these are just rumours.
There have been a couple strange ones out there lately not the least of which is Kovalev to Anaheim. The Ducks currently sit in last place in the Western Conference and are much more likely to unload veteran contracts rather than pick one up.
I don't think the Sheldon Souray rumour would work either. Souray has had a solid season in Edmonton and would definitely help a struggling Senators power play but his $5 million dollar price tag really doesn't fit into the Senators budget.
That's all for now. If you're looking for a place to talk Olympic Hockey, I've just set up a new blog called GOLD RUSH. Check it out...
http://www.goldrush2010.blogspot.com/
The NHL's longest serving Captain and greatest player in franchise history turns 37 today. Each year I worry we'll start to see signs of age but he continues to produce at an elite level.
Happy Birthday Alfie...
To close out the week, I figured I'd post a few of the rumours I've come across as of late while also taking the time to address some of the other talk out there.
-One source I spoke with continues to push the idea of Teemu Selanne to Ottawa. He suggests a prospect like Cody Bass would be part of the package headed to Anaheim.
- Ottawa is still very much interested in Cam Barker. However, the Hawks no longer seem desperate to make a move. They would move Sopel if they could but even Brent Sopel has played well in Chicago this year.
- The Brian Lee situation is a strange one but it really seems as though there is a legitimate injury Lee is dealing with in the AHL. It's possible the Senators could still move him but that's obviously much more difficult with the current "lower-body" issue.
-Brian Lee, Chris Kelly and Ryan Shannon remain the most likely players to be moved.
-Very interesting rumour sent my way today. It was suggested that a couple disgruntled defenceman may be looking for a ticket out of Nashville. The names suggested were Shea Weber and Cody Franson.
Weber would be surprising but the rumour is he may want to play in Canada. Senators scouts have been following the Predators for awhile now. I can't even imagine what it would take to acquire a guy like Weber.
As always, these are just rumours.
There have been a couple strange ones out there lately not the least of which is Kovalev to Anaheim. The Ducks currently sit in last place in the Western Conference and are much more likely to unload veteran contracts rather than pick one up.
I don't think the Sheldon Souray rumour would work either. Souray has had a solid season in Edmonton and would definitely help a struggling Senators power play but his $5 million dollar price tag really doesn't fit into the Senators budget.
That's all for now. If you're looking for a place to talk Olympic Hockey, I've just set up a new blog called GOLD RUSH. Check it out...
http://www.goldrush2010.blogspot.com/
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Grinding Out the Win
Up until about half way through the third period this really was a game that could go either way.
With the Sens struggling lately this was the kind of game that would have had some fans in this city mashing the ol' panic button. But on the strength of a third period goal from Nick Foligno, the Senators were able to walk into Philly and pick up another huge two points.
Full credit to Brian Elliott for his second career shutout and first of the season. He battled all night and it's nice to see him get rewarded with the goose egg.
This really was an impressive defensive effort for the Senators and a near text book road game. While the power play continued to struggle the penalty kill was awesome against the Flyers. Ottawa killed off seven Philly power plays including a nearly full two minute 5 on 3 early in the hockey game.
Anton Volchenkov was an absolute machine tonight and was at his defensive best from the get go. He caught Richards with a classic A-Train hit and blocked five shots on the night.
Anyway, obviously this wasn't the prettiest of games but its nice to see Ottawa get the two points against one of the teams behind them in the playoff race.
Until tomorrow...
With the Sens struggling lately this was the kind of game that would have had some fans in this city mashing the ol' panic button. But on the strength of a third period goal from Nick Foligno, the Senators were able to walk into Philly and pick up another huge two points.
Full credit to Brian Elliott for his second career shutout and first of the season. He battled all night and it's nice to see him get rewarded with the goose egg.
This really was an impressive defensive effort for the Senators and a near text book road game. While the power play continued to struggle the penalty kill was awesome against the Flyers. Ottawa killed off seven Philly power plays including a nearly full two minute 5 on 3 early in the hockey game.
Anton Volchenkov was an absolute machine tonight and was at his defensive best from the get go. He caught Richards with a classic A-Train hit and blocked five shots on the night.
Anyway, obviously this wasn't the prettiest of games but its nice to see Ottawa get the two points against one of the teams behind them in the playoff race.
Until tomorrow...
Game Day
Just a quick post for now as I'm going to be away from the computer till later.
Senators are in Philly tonight to take on the Flyers.
No line up changes for Ottawa but they have shuffled the lines a little bit. Kovalev will return to the wing on Mike Fisher's line while Spezza will be reunited with Alfredsson and Michalek.
Picard isn't quite ready to return.
Elliott starts in goal.
Sent on the TELUS Mobility network with BlackBerry
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Brian Lee-"Out Indefinitely"
Interesting update from Binghamton Senators reporter Michael Sharp.
The word is Brian Lee will apparently be out for the rest of December with what the team is calling a "lower-body" injury.
The word is Brian Lee will apparently be out for the rest of December with what the team is calling a "lower-body" injury.
Update From Practice
(UPDATE 1:27 PM)- An update from the Ottawa Senators Twitter feed. The Senators have sent Ryan Keller back to Bingo.
Just a quick update today as the Senators get set to visit the Flyers tomorrow night.
Anton Volchenkov didn't skate today with what they are calling a maintenance day. He should be good to go tomorrow.
Chris Neil was on the ice today but without equipment. Seems like he is still a week or so away. The good news is Alex Picard did practice this morning and could play tomorrow night in Philly.
Clouston also provided an update on Pascal Leclaire. He did put the mask on the other day but isn't practicing yet. Clouston guessed he could be 10 days away.
Oh and Clouston is telling Kovalev to shoot more. Sounds good to me...
Just a quick update today as the Senators get set to visit the Flyers tomorrow night.
Anton Volchenkov didn't skate today with what they are calling a maintenance day. He should be good to go tomorrow.
Chris Neil was on the ice today but without equipment. Seems like he is still a week or so away. The good news is Alex Picard did practice this morning and could play tomorrow night in Philly.
Clouston also provided an update on Pascal Leclaire. He did put the mask on the other day but isn't practicing yet. Clouston guessed he could be 10 days away.
Oh and Clouston is telling Kovalev to shoot more. Sounds good to me...
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Home Sweet Home
(UPDATE 12:48 PM)- Interesting little deal made by the Columbus Blue Jackets. They have acquired former Senator Brendan Bell from the St. Louis Blues. Guess this means they won't be making a play for Brian Lee anytime soon.
The Ottawa Senators return home to the friendly confines of Scotiabank Place after a gruelling West Coast road trip. It's a huge divisional match up tonight as the Senators host the rival Montreal Canadiens.
The Habs have won back to back games and are coming off a win on home ice last night over the Philadelphia Flyers. The first game back after a long road trip is traditionally a tough one so a good start could do a long way tonight against the Canadiens, especially if you consider they played last night.
Ottawa currently sits 7th in the Eastern Conference with the Canadiens and a whole host of other teams nipping at their heels. The Senators sit just two points clear of Montreal so obviously a win tonight would be huge.
The Sens will go with the same line up from their shootout win over the Ducks on Sunday night. Here are the lines for this one...
Michalek-Fisher-Alfredsson
Foligno-Spezza-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott will get the nod in goal once again.
Alex Picard, Chris Neil, Shean Donovan and Pascal Leclaire all remain on the shelf. Neil looks like he is about a week away from a return. Still little information on the injury to Picard but the team is still calling it day to day.
Lastly, thanks to the reader who sent me this link. A site called The Inside Man has shown another picture with three different jersey designs, including the one pictured here yesterday. Here's the picture...
The Ottawa Senators return home to the friendly confines of Scotiabank Place after a gruelling West Coast road trip. It's a huge divisional match up tonight as the Senators host the rival Montreal Canadiens.
The Habs have won back to back games and are coming off a win on home ice last night over the Philadelphia Flyers. The first game back after a long road trip is traditionally a tough one so a good start could do a long way tonight against the Canadiens, especially if you consider they played last night.
Ottawa currently sits 7th in the Eastern Conference with the Canadiens and a whole host of other teams nipping at their heels. The Senators sit just two points clear of Montreal so obviously a win tonight would be huge.
The Sens will go with the same line up from their shootout win over the Ducks on Sunday night. Here are the lines for this one...
Michalek-Fisher-Alfredsson
Foligno-Spezza-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott will get the nod in goal once again.
Alex Picard, Chris Neil, Shean Donovan and Pascal Leclaire all remain on the shelf. Neil looks like he is about a week away from a return. Still little information on the injury to Picard but the team is still calling it day to day.
Lastly, thanks to the reader who sent me this link. A site called The Inside Man has shown another picture with three different jersey designs, including the one pictured here yesterday. Here's the picture...
Monday, December 7, 2009
Monday Chatter
Seemed as though the talk around defenceman Brian Lee picked up a little bit over the weekend with a few different rumours surfacing. After being demoted early last week it really does look a though Lee could be on his way out at some point before the NHL's roster freeze on December 19.
Lee has missed the last couple games with the Binghamton Senators. At first it was believed he had the flu but Bingo bench boss Don Nachbaur said after their game the other night that it's an injury and not the flu. The whole thing seems pretty strange to me.
Over the weekend I had a couple different rumours sent my way on Lee. As always they are just rumours but here is a look at what people are saying...
-The first suggested that there may soon be or already is a deal in principle involving Lee. The deal would apparently be for Cam Barker in Chicago.
MY TAKE: This one has been talked about for awhile now and would really be a solid deal if the Senators could get it done. The speculation is that Lee would go to Chicago along with an expiring contract to help the Hawks cap situation. Barker is still young but has become a little bit expendable on a deep Hawks blueline.
I still think the Hawks would rather move Sopel if they could find a taker.
-The second rumour has to do with the Carolina Hurricanes. They apparently like Brian Lee and are looking to move a veteran like Aaron Ward.
MY TAKE: This better be "plan b" if Murray really is considering this move. Ward is a good veteran defenceman but not what the Senators need right now. Ottawa needs a guy that can play the power play. If Barker is indeed available he is the guy Ottawa should be going after.
As I mentioned yesterday, I've just had a picture sent my way that shows the new jersey design apparently being considered. I am by no means on top of all this jersey stuff so if this has been shown somewhere else go ahead and let me know.
Just the rumoured design at this point obviously...
Lee has missed the last couple games with the Binghamton Senators. At first it was believed he had the flu but Bingo bench boss Don Nachbaur said after their game the other night that it's an injury and not the flu. The whole thing seems pretty strange to me.
Over the weekend I had a couple different rumours sent my way on Lee. As always they are just rumours but here is a look at what people are saying...
-The first suggested that there may soon be or already is a deal in principle involving Lee. The deal would apparently be for Cam Barker in Chicago.
MY TAKE: This one has been talked about for awhile now and would really be a solid deal if the Senators could get it done. The speculation is that Lee would go to Chicago along with an expiring contract to help the Hawks cap situation. Barker is still young but has become a little bit expendable on a deep Hawks blueline.
I still think the Hawks would rather move Sopel if they could find a taker.
-The second rumour has to do with the Carolina Hurricanes. They apparently like Brian Lee and are looking to move a veteran like Aaron Ward.
MY TAKE: This better be "plan b" if Murray really is considering this move. Ward is a good veteran defenceman but not what the Senators need right now. Ottawa needs a guy that can play the power play. If Barker is indeed available he is the guy Ottawa should be going after.
As I mentioned yesterday, I've just had a picture sent my way that shows the new jersey design apparently being considered. I am by no means on top of all this jersey stuff so if this has been shown somewhere else go ahead and let me know.
Just the rumoured design at this point obviously...
What do ya think?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
TWO POINTS
The perfect way to end what really was a painful road trip for this team.
Ottawa held the lead three times in this game only to see the Ducks battle back within a minute each time For a team that is already a little fragile it's huge to see them come away with a win in Anaheim.
Elliott let in some weird ones but really battled in the third period to get the team into the shootout. He has taken a ton of criticism on this trip so you know this one has to feel good. Watching the guys celebrate with Elliott afterwards you could tell they really wanted to win this one for him.
Same goes for Jason Spezza who picked up a goal and made a terrific pass to set up Kuba in the third period. Spezza seemed to have more life tonight and turned in a much better performance.
The Ducks pushed in the third but Elliott stood tall and secured an extremely important two points. It was no Picaso but a win just the same.
That's it for tonight folks. A little teaser for tomorrow though. Hoping to have a picture of this rumoured new jersey design I have been talking about for the last week or so.
Until then...
Ottawa held the lead three times in this game only to see the Ducks battle back within a minute each time For a team that is already a little fragile it's huge to see them come away with a win in Anaheim.
Elliott let in some weird ones but really battled in the third period to get the team into the shootout. He has taken a ton of criticism on this trip so you know this one has to feel good. Watching the guys celebrate with Elliott afterwards you could tell they really wanted to win this one for him.
Same goes for Jason Spezza who picked up a goal and made a terrific pass to set up Kuba in the third period. Spezza seemed to have more life tonight and turned in a much better performance.
The Ducks pushed in the third but Elliott stood tall and secured an extremely important two points. It was no Picaso but a win just the same.
That's it for tonight folks. A little teaser for tomorrow though. Hoping to have a picture of this rumoured new jersey design I have been talking about for the last week or so.
Until then...
Game Day in Anaheim
Sorry for the late game day post. Been running around a little bit today. Tis the season I suppose.
Anyway, as I'm sure most you have heard by now, there has been some serious line juggling heading into tonight's game with the Ducks.
Foligno-Spezza-Kovalev
Michalek-Fisher-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
And in a bit of a surprise, Brian Elliott will once again start in goal. Here's hoping he can get back on track tonight.
There will be a live blog tonight for anyone that is interested. CLICK HERE to join in...
Anyway, as I'm sure most you have heard by now, there has been some serious line juggling heading into tonight's game with the Ducks.
Foligno-Spezza-Kovalev
Michalek-Fisher-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
And in a bit of a surprise, Brian Elliott will once again start in goal. Here's hoping he can get back on track tonight.
There will be a live blog tonight for anyone that is interested. CLICK HERE to join in...
Chirp of the Week
Alright folks, here is this week's Chirp of the week. It comes from a SensChirp regular who goes by the name of Engin. This recent skid has people questioning some of the decisions being made by Coach Clouston but Engin thinks we should all take a deep breath when it comes to criticizing Clouston.
Here's what he had to say....
Here is my rant about Cory Clouston,
On February 1, 2009 former Ottawa Senators head coach Craig Hartsburg was fired after 7-4 lose to the Washington Capitals. The following day a 39 year-old by the name of Cory Clouston took over has the coach on an interim basis. On April 8, 2009 after a 3-2 win against the Boston Bruins. Ottawa Senators management rewarded Cory Clouston with two-year deal thus making him the head coach on full times basis.
Fast forward to the 2009-10 season and Sens Army seems to start the "FIRE CLOUSTON" or "CLOUSTON IS AN IDIOT" comments. You guys do realize that our hockey has a reputation of being Coach killers. By firing Clouston, that would make it 4 coaches in the past 200 regular season NHL games. Thus adding more foul to the fire of team's reputation of being Coach killers.
Here is some advice for our fans. How is about taking a look at our roster before you start ripping Clouston.
As you can see it's not a star-studded roster like Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington and San Jose are. Outside of Alfredsson, Spezza, Kovalev, and Michalek the rest of the forward group lack skill. The defensive group as you can see isn't super either with an AHLer in Carkner, a rookie in Karlsson(who will be a solid NHL defenceman in the future) and a No.4 or No.5 guys in Campoli and Picard.
Honestly, Clouston has done a good job with the hand he has been dealt with. Sure there will be times where the team will go through rough patches. That doesn't mean Clouston should be fired because it.
Give Clouston another two or three years when the Senators add better pieces to the puzzle before you starting busting out the pitch forks and torches. This isn't soccer Sens Army.
Engin
Here's what he had to say....
Here is my rant about Cory Clouston,
On February 1, 2009 former Ottawa Senators head coach Craig Hartsburg was fired after 7-4 lose to the Washington Capitals. The following day a 39 year-old by the name of Cory Clouston took over has the coach on an interim basis. On April 8, 2009 after a 3-2 win against the Boston Bruins. Ottawa Senators management rewarded Cory Clouston with two-year deal thus making him the head coach on full times basis.
Fast forward to the 2009-10 season and Sens Army seems to start the "FIRE CLOUSTON" or "CLOUSTON IS AN IDIOT" comments. You guys do realize that our hockey has a reputation of being Coach killers. By firing Clouston, that would make it 4 coaches in the past 200 regular season NHL games. Thus adding more foul to the fire of team's reputation of being Coach killers.
Here is some advice for our fans. How is about taking a look at our roster before you start ripping Clouston.
As you can see it's not a star-studded roster like Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington and San Jose are. Outside of Alfredsson, Spezza, Kovalev, and Michalek the rest of the forward group lack skill. The defensive group as you can see isn't super either with an AHLer in Carkner, a rookie in Karlsson(who will be a solid NHL defenceman in the future) and a No.4 or No.5 guys in Campoli and Picard.
Honestly, Clouston has done a good job with the hand he has been dealt with. Sure there will be times where the team will go through rough patches. That doesn't mean Clouston should be fired because it.
Give Clouston another two or three years when the Senators add better pieces to the puzzle before you starting busting out the pitch forks and torches. This isn't soccer Sens Army.
Engin
Rock Bottom?
I hope that was rock bottom anyway.
Absolutely inexcusable effort in Phoenix tonight. Not entirely surprising I suppose but still unacceptable. Latter half of the third period was a little better for the Sens but too little too late obviously.
I don't think Jason Spezza is a bad hockey player but I do think he was one of the worst players on the ice tonight and probably has been the last three games.
Clouston, I am begging you to put Cheechoo or Kovalev on a line with Speeza. I know you hold a special place in your heart for Ryan Shannon but putting him on the top line is ridiculous.
For the second straight game I thought Cheechoo was far and away the best player on the ice for Ottawa. This was pretty much a 3-0 game if not for the effort of Cheechoo in the last 5 minutes.
The only thing that made this loss worse was having to watch the game on this ridiculous patch work broadcast using the scoreboard feed in Phoenix combined with the Coyotes radio call. The NHL should be embarrassed that this product is associated with their league.
Mike Brodeur should be in the goal tomorrow against the Ducks. Elliott struggled again.
Back at it tomorrow.
Absolutely inexcusable effort in Phoenix tonight. Not entirely surprising I suppose but still unacceptable. Latter half of the third period was a little better for the Sens but too little too late obviously.
I don't think Jason Spezza is a bad hockey player but I do think he was one of the worst players on the ice tonight and probably has been the last three games.
Clouston, I am begging you to put Cheechoo or Kovalev on a line with Speeza. I know you hold a special place in your heart for Ryan Shannon but putting him on the top line is ridiculous.
For the second straight game I thought Cheechoo was far and away the best player on the ice for Ottawa. This was pretty much a 3-0 game if not for the effort of Cheechoo in the last 5 minutes.
The only thing that made this loss worse was having to watch the game on this ridiculous patch work broadcast using the scoreboard feed in Phoenix combined with the Coyotes radio call. The NHL should be embarrassed that this product is associated with their league.
Mike Brodeur should be in the goal tomorrow against the Ducks. Elliott struggled again.
Back at it tomorrow.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Game Day in Phoenix
The Ottawa Senators are in Phoenix tonight to take on the Coyotes for a 10:00 PM start. Originally there was no TV coverage planned but NHL Centre Ice has picked up the game meaning it will be available to Centre Ice Subscribers.
The Coyotes, winners of three straight, currently sit in 7th in the Western Conference. Phoenix has really been turning heads early this season and is coming off a 2-1 victory over the Flames on Thursday night.
A couple line up notes heading into the game this evening. Alex Picard will miss the game with what the team is calling an upper body injury. Chris Campoli steps into his spot.
Nick Foligno will draw back in this evening. His return likely means that Ryan Keller will come out.
Some more juggling in those top two lines...
Michalek-Spezza-Shannon
Kovalev-Fisher-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Foligno
Brian Elliott starts in goal.
In an interesting twist, Brian Lee was scratched from the Binghamton Senators line up last night. The team is saying he has the flu but from what I understand he has been practicing with the team. Definitely something to keep an eye on.
Lastly, if you haven't checked out THE 6th SENS podcast I highly recommend you do. In week one they sat down with Senators founder Bruce Firestone and this week they speak with Puck Daddy of Yahoo Sports. Definitely worth a listen. Here's the link to their latest podcast...
The Coyotes, winners of three straight, currently sit in 7th in the Western Conference. Phoenix has really been turning heads early this season and is coming off a 2-1 victory over the Flames on Thursday night.
A couple line up notes heading into the game this evening. Alex Picard will miss the game with what the team is calling an upper body injury. Chris Campoli steps into his spot.
Nick Foligno will draw back in this evening. His return likely means that Ryan Keller will come out.
Some more juggling in those top two lines...
Michalek-Spezza-Shannon
Kovalev-Fisher-Alfredsson
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Foligno
Brian Elliott starts in goal.
In an interesting twist, Brian Lee was scratched from the Binghamton Senators line up last night. The team is saying he has the flu but from what I understand he has been practicing with the team. Definitely something to keep an eye on.
Lastly, if you haven't checked out THE 6th SENS podcast I highly recommend you do. In week one they sat down with Senators founder Bruce Firestone and this week they speak with Puck Daddy of Yahoo Sports. Definitely worth a listen. Here's the link to their latest podcast...
Friday, December 4, 2009
Friday Update- (Picard Doubtful Tomorrow)
(UPDATE 2:55 PM)- As I mentioned earlier, the Sens were off today but an interview with Clouston indicated that Alex Picard (upper body) is doubtful for the game tomorrow in Phoenix. Campoli will draw back in if Picard can't go.
Clouston talked about goaltending but didn't say anything about who his starter would be tomorrow night.
The Coach also said that Chris Neil is probably still another 10 days away from returning.
The Senators are off today as they get set to face the Phoenix Coyotes tomorrow night. Ottawa will travel back to California after the game in Arizona to close out the road trip in Anaheim. Pretty bizarre scheduling by the NHL on this road trip.
I wouldn't be surprised if we saw Mike Brodeur get a start in one of the next two games. That should make the Mike Brodeur fan that's always hanging around here quite happy.
Tomorrow night is another Saturday night game with no scheduled TV coverage. But I actually just got an email saying that the game will be available on Centre Ice. They will apparently use the in-house video along with the Coyotes radio broadcast. That should be a treat...
I think we could all use some good news the day after a tough loss in Los Angeles so here is a little update I got on the third jersey possibility for next season. This is still just a rumour at this point but pretty exciting if it's true.
The person I spoke with said that the design that's being discussed does have that vintage "O" logo and could include red helmets.
Clouston talked about goaltending but didn't say anything about who his starter would be tomorrow night.
The Coach also said that Chris Neil is probably still another 10 days away from returning.
The Senators are off today as they get set to face the Phoenix Coyotes tomorrow night. Ottawa will travel back to California after the game in Arizona to close out the road trip in Anaheim. Pretty bizarre scheduling by the NHL on this road trip.
I wouldn't be surprised if we saw Mike Brodeur get a start in one of the next two games. That should make the Mike Brodeur fan that's always hanging around here quite happy.
Tomorrow night is another Saturday night game with no scheduled TV coverage. But I actually just got an email saying that the game will be available on Centre Ice. They will apparently use the in-house video along with the Coyotes radio broadcast. That should be a treat...
I think we could all use some good news the day after a tough loss in Los Angeles so here is a little update I got on the third jersey possibility for next season. This is still just a rumour at this point but pretty exciting if it's true.
The person I spoke with said that the design that's being discussed does have that vintage "O" logo and could include red helmets.
Meh
Efforts like that seem to be pretty much the norm when this team plays out West. Not sure what it is but the Senators always struggle on their trips to the Left Coast.
Obviously this wasn't the Senators best effort and while I could sit here and point out the negatives I'll leave that to you guys.
I thought Jonathan Cheechoo played his best game as a Senator. He scored a goal and drew three penalties with hard work down low. Cheechoo had 6 shots on goal and another 5 missed shots. He was a plus one on the night and led the team with 6 hits all in just 13:54 of ice time.
Ottawa could definitely use efforts like that from Cheechoo on a more consistent basis.
Mike Fisher also looked like he's back up to speed after missing a couple games. Fisher had a couple goals on the night and added 6 shots. He was strong on the forecheck and seemed to create offense every time he was on the ice.
Erik Karlsson also had a pretty solid outing. He's still getting caught gambling at times but you can see the offensive instincts that are going to make him a great defenceman in this league.
Unfortunately, this was a night where the negatives far outweighed the positives. Plenty of question marks heading into Phoenix on Saturday night.
Obviously this wasn't the Senators best effort and while I could sit here and point out the negatives I'll leave that to you guys.
I thought Jonathan Cheechoo played his best game as a Senator. He scored a goal and drew three penalties with hard work down low. Cheechoo had 6 shots on goal and another 5 missed shots. He was a plus one on the night and led the team with 6 hits all in just 13:54 of ice time.
Ottawa could definitely use efforts like that from Cheechoo on a more consistent basis.
Mike Fisher also looked like he's back up to speed after missing a couple games. Fisher had a couple goals on the night and added 6 shots. He was strong on the forecheck and seemed to create offense every time he was on the ice.
Erik Karlsson also had a pretty solid outing. He's still getting caught gambling at times but you can see the offensive instincts that are going to make him a great defenceman in this league.
Unfortunately, this was a night where the negatives far outweighed the positives. Plenty of question marks heading into Phoenix on Saturday night.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Game Day @ Los Angeles
The Ottawa Senators will look to get back in the win column tonight when they pay a visit to Anze Kopitar and the LA Kings. Puck drop is at 10:30 PM
After being benched for a portion of the game against the Sharks, Nick Foligno will be a healthy scratch tonight. Peter Regin will take his spot in the line up.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Kovalev-Fisher-Shannon
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Keller
Brian Elliott will start in goal.
Nothing new on the rumour front today. I spoke with one source who said the organization is downplaying the potential dispute between Lee and the organization but that's to be expected.
The Karlsson call up had a lot to do with helping a struggling power play. They just want Lee to go down to the AHL and work hard. End of story. I still think Brian Lee could be dealt but I really don't think he's enough to pry Filatov out of Columbus.
The Senators are absolutely discussing potential trade options right now but there really doesn't appear to be any sense of urgency to get something done.
After being benched for a portion of the game against the Sharks, Nick Foligno will be a healthy scratch tonight. Peter Regin will take his spot in the line up.
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Kovalev-Fisher-Shannon
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Keller
Brian Elliott will start in goal.
Nothing new on the rumour front today. I spoke with one source who said the organization is downplaying the potential dispute between Lee and the organization but that's to be expected.
The Karlsson call up had a lot to do with helping a struggling power play. They just want Lee to go down to the AHL and work hard. End of story. I still think Brian Lee could be dealt but I really don't think he's enough to pry Filatov out of Columbus.
The Senators are absolutely discussing potential trade options right now but there really doesn't appear to be any sense of urgency to get something done.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A Few Rumours
Had a chance to speak with a contact this morning and he passed a few rumours my way. As always these are just rumours and speculation. Nothing posted below is 100%. Just thought I'd share a bit of what I'm hearing...
-There 's plenty of talk about Brian Lee lately. His demotion surprised a lot of people considering his improved play since the call up. Some are suggesting he had a bit of a falling out with the coaching staff in Ottawa. Columbus has an interest. Ottawa would love Filatov obviously but I don't know that the Jackets are ready to give up on him.
-Carolina, Dallas and Los Angeles scouts have all been following Ottawa as of late.
-The priorities for Bryan Murray include a top 4 defenceman and a forward who can play in their top six.
-Among the names believed to on Ottawa's radar; Teemu Selanne and Jussi Jokinen.
- Players believed to be on the trading block; Chris Kelly, Brian Lee, Alex Picard and Ryan Shannon
-There is talk Ottawa could potentially release a new third jersey next season. And yes, it would be the vintage design. This one seems like a longshot at this point but the contact mentioned Washington, Pittsburgh and Vancouver as teams that are also looking at new uniforms for next season.
Rumours folks. Just rumours...
In other Senators related news both Jared Cowen and Patrick Wiercioch have been named to the Team Canada's 36 man selection camp roster for the upcoming World Junior Tournament.
-There 's plenty of talk about Brian Lee lately. His demotion surprised a lot of people considering his improved play since the call up. Some are suggesting he had a bit of a falling out with the coaching staff in Ottawa. Columbus has an interest. Ottawa would love Filatov obviously but I don't know that the Jackets are ready to give up on him.
-Carolina, Dallas and Los Angeles scouts have all been following Ottawa as of late.
-The priorities for Bryan Murray include a top 4 defenceman and a forward who can play in their top six.
-Among the names believed to on Ottawa's radar; Teemu Selanne and Jussi Jokinen.
- Players believed to be on the trading block; Chris Kelly, Brian Lee, Alex Picard and Ryan Shannon
-There is talk Ottawa could potentially release a new third jersey next season. And yes, it would be the vintage design. This one seems like a longshot at this point but the contact mentioned Washington, Pittsburgh and Vancouver as teams that are also looking at new uniforms for next season.
Rumours folks. Just rumours...
In other Senators related news both Jared Cowen and Patrick Wiercioch have been named to the Team Canada's 36 man selection camp roster for the upcoming World Junior Tournament.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Hello Dany...
(UPDATE 3:14 PM)- Chris Campoli comes out of the line up tonight. Volchenkov is in..
(UPDATE 2:37 PM)- Ian Mendes is reporting that the San Jose Sharks will start Thomas Greiss tonight againt the Senators.
It may not be a visit to Ottawa but tonight's head to head match up with Dany Heatley and the San Jose Sharks is as close as Ottawa fans will get this year.
Had Chris Neil been in the line up I would've expected him to take a run at Dany at some point but that's not gonna happen. Here's hoping Volchenkov can catch Heatley with his head down at the blue line.
I know these guys are all professionals but I think the actions on the ice will go a long way towards showing how some of the guys in the locker room felt about Heatley's trade demand this summer.
Beyond the Heatley angle, this is really just a massive test for the Ottawa Senators. The Sharks are league's top team and have been nearly unbeatable on home ice. Staying out of the penalty box will be huge tonight for the Sens. The Sharks have some lethal players on that power play and Ottawa needs to keep them off the ice.
I'm expecting a nice ovation for both Jonathan Cheechoo and Milan Michalek in their return to San Jose. Both players were fan favourites in the teal and black so it should be fun for them to go back to the ol' stomping grounds and hopefully make an impact on the scoresheet.
Anton Volchenkov is expected to finally make his return to the Ottawa line up. No word yet on who comes out to make room but you would think its either Erik Karlsson or Chris Campoli. The forward lines remain unchanged...
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Foligno-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott gets the start in goal.
(UPDATE 2:37 PM)- Ian Mendes is reporting that the San Jose Sharks will start Thomas Greiss tonight againt the Senators.
It may not be a visit to Ottawa but tonight's head to head match up with Dany Heatley and the San Jose Sharks is as close as Ottawa fans will get this year.
Had Chris Neil been in the line up I would've expected him to take a run at Dany at some point but that's not gonna happen. Here's hoping Volchenkov can catch Heatley with his head down at the blue line.
I know these guys are all professionals but I think the actions on the ice will go a long way towards showing how some of the guys in the locker room felt about Heatley's trade demand this summer.
Beyond the Heatley angle, this is really just a massive test for the Ottawa Senators. The Sharks are league's top team and have been nearly unbeatable on home ice. Staying out of the penalty box will be huge tonight for the Sens. The Sharks have some lethal players on that power play and Ottawa needs to keep them off the ice.
I'm expecting a nice ovation for both Jonathan Cheechoo and Milan Michalek in their return to San Jose. Both players were fan favourites in the teal and black so it should be fun for them to go back to the ol' stomping grounds and hopefully make an impact on the scoresheet.
Anton Volchenkov is expected to finally make his return to the Ottawa line up. No word yet on who comes out to make room but you would think its either Erik Karlsson or Chris Campoli. The forward lines remain unchanged...
Michalek-Spezza-Alfredsson
Foligno-Fisher-Kovalev
Ruutu-Kelly-Cheechoo
Regin-Winchester-Shannon
Brian Elliott gets the start in goal.
Puck drop is at 10:30 PM tonight. I'll be live blogging this one for theScore.com. I'll post the link later today...
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