OTTAWA — A key difference for this Ottawa Senators team compared to recent years is their improved ability to avoid slumps and stay consistent.
While they`ve experienced both winning and losing streaks, the team has shown resilience when it matters most, managing to stay competitive, especially when facing potential downturns.
Their recent 3-2 victory over the Devils in New Jersey exemplifies this. Despite a comfortable lead narrowing to a close finish, the Senators secured the win, preventing a three-game losing streak.
This win positions the Senators favorably in the wild-card race, holding a solid spot while other teams battle for the remaining position.
With several weeks remaining, the playoff picture can still change, but recent struggles from supposedly strong teams have reduced some of the tension in the wild-card chase, particularly in the Eastern Conference.
The New York Rangers, for example, have underperformed expectations, losing seven of their last ten games.
Legendary Rangers broadcaster Sam Rosen humorously commented on the team`s struggles in his retirement season, noting their lack of response to his encouragement.
Vancouver dominated the Rangers in a recent game, highlighting the reliance on their goaltender Igor Shesterkin to keep them competitive.
Senators fans recall a game where the Rangers squandered a lead against Ottawa, resulting in a Senators victory, a reflection of their contrasting seasons.
The New York Islanders, despite perceived less talent, have shown more determination and are close behind the Rangers in the standings.
Other Eastern Conference hopefuls like Detroit and Columbus have faced significant slumps, diminishing their playoff chances.
However, Ottawa should be cautious as they approach games against lower-ranked teams like Buffalo, Detroit, and Columbus, who will be motivated to play spoiler.
Cozens Returns to Buffalo
Dylan Cozens is set to quickly return to Buffalo, the city where he began his NHL career, as the Senators face the Sabres on Tuesday.
Cozens, acquired by Ottawa before the trade deadline, has integrated well into the team, contributing to their playoff push. His addition of size and skill is seen as a valuable asset.
The Senators are satisfied with Cozens` performance, as he`s averaging nearly a point per game. The trade also involved defensemen Jacob Bernard-Docker and Dennis Gilbert.
Coach Travis Green expressed pleasant surprise at Cozens` impact, noting his potential for further development within the team`s system.
Both Green and veteran player David Perron acknowledge the unique experience of facing a former team for the first time.
Returning to a familiar rink but in a visiting role, with former teammates on the opposing side, presents a different dynamic.
Cozens` father is accompanying him on this trip, which may help ease the focus on his return to Buffalo.
Despite the quick turnaround for his family from Whitehorse, Cozens is prepared for the game.
He has been in contact with his former Buffalo teammates and is ready to handle any awkwardness associated with the situation.
Cozens expressed excitement for the game, emphasizing its importance for the Senators` playoff aspirations.
Cozens acknowledges the trade was unexpected but is motivated by joining a team with playoff ambitions, contrasting with Buffalo`s current situation.
He reflected on his time in Buffalo, expressing initial hopes for long-term success there and his current happiness as a Senator.
The Senators organization is equally pleased with Cozens` addition to their roster.
Tkachuk Expected to Play Despite Rest
Brady Tkachuk, dealing with a hip issue, rested on Monday but is expected to play against the Sabres. Nick Jensen`s status is less certain as he recovers from an injury since March 13.
