Looking at the schedule at the start of the season, it was clear that January was going to be a month that tested this young hockey club.  Despite a three game slide heading into the break, the Sens were able to rise to the challenge, posting an impressive 8-4-2 record and giving themselves a shot at a playoff position this spring.

30 games to go. That's all that remains in the schedule of the surprising Ottawa Senators.

The post All Star agenda starts with a daunting road challenge in the form of the division leading Boston Bruins.   After that, the Sens will play a stretch of five straight at SBP, including three against non-playoff teams (TOR, NYI, EDM).  With the teams behind them having played fewer games, points will be crucial during that home stretch.

Here are a few things to watch for over the final 30 games.

• The Sens will play 15 games against playoff teams, 15 against teams currently outside of the playoff picture.
• 17 of 30 games will be played at Scotiabank Place.
• 26 games against the East, just four against Western Conference teams.
• Ottawa will play on back to back nights five times.
• The Senators play four more games against the division leading Boston Bruins and four against the New York Islanders.
• The Sens play three games against the Canadiens and two against the Leafs, Panthers, Lightning and Devils.
• That leaves one game each against the Blues, Predators, Oilers, Capitals, Blackhawks, Rangers, Sabres, Penguins, Jets, Flyers and Hurricanes.

A few things in there to think about. Incredible that the Sens play 11 of the remaining 30 games against the Bruins, Islanders and Canadiens. After a road-heavy January, the Sens will have the benefit of playing the majority of their remaining games at SBP.

All Star Festivities start tomorrow with a preview of the Fantasy Draft set for tomorrow night at the Casino Lac Lemay. Until then!