So What Now?

Grim times in Sens Land. Grim.

I'm trying to stay positive. I do believe that IF they can turn it around in time, this is the absolute best time for this skid to happen. Facing some major adversity right before the playoffs is a really good thing, so long as you can bounce back and learn from it. Look no further than the last losing streak we went through to see what can follow.

That being said, it's cutting it really close. It's do or die time. If this doesn't turn around very soon, we're looking at the real possibility that there will be no playoffs in Ottawa for the second year in a row. Atlanta is just six points back right now and surging. Montreal has caught up. Boston is 3 points back. Luckily for the Senators, the Rangers just plain suck.

There were some signs of life in Dallas yesterday afternoon. Despite a dispicable defensive game, the offense was really beginning to click. The D were pinching and the team as a whole was very effective in the offensive zone. Not to mention the power play, which was on fire (go figure). Jason Spezza had one of his best of the season, and Matt Cullen looked outstanding on the top line. Hopefully Cory Clouston sticks to that for now.

There were definitely positives that could be taken from yesterday's game, which is far more than could be said of the 2 previous.

As for the negatives... well there were a fair share of those as well.

Goaltending. I really don't know what to say. I have defended Pascal LeClaire to no end all season long. I kept pushing the issue that once he's healthy, he'll be a superstar and will take us all the way. And with Brian Elliott as a more than capable backup, we just can't lose!

Boy oh boy. Word of advice, Never, ever listen to me about anything. Ever.

Both guys have been just plain bad lately. Do I think all of the onus should be placed on goaltending? Absolutely not. But 5-6 goals allowed per night just won't win you games in the NHL. That's just the way it is.

I have no idea what the answer is in nets for this team. On message boards and blog comment sections across the city, folks are begging for the return of Mike Brodeur, the AHL goalie who got our last winning streak started and boasts a 3-0 record all time in the NHL. But the fact is, not only is he currently injured (although he is set to return very shortly), but he would also have to clear waivers to get here. I have a hard time believing Philadelphia wouldn't grab him. It would cost them what, $200 or so?

Not only do I have no idea what they should do for the final 10 games, but what about next season with both goalies signed into 2011? Maybe a summer's rest and s fresh season is all that's needed. But it doesn't appear as though LeClaire and Clouston quite see eye to eye. It'll be a long season indeed for Pascal if that's the case. But I guess that's a debate for another day.

Up next is Montreal. This is easily the game of the season so far for Ottawa. Could be the make or break moment of the year, boys. Win it, you're up 2 points on the Habs in the standings and on your way to recovery. Lose? Yikes.

Word has it that Zach Smith has been called up for the occasion to add a little youthful energy to the team. No idea who'll be sitting out, but what does that say about Shean Donovan? The guy is pure energy and continues to sit in the press box! Is there more to this story set to unfold? Will a bigger name be taking a seat tomorrow night?

Whatever happens, and no matter what blurts out of my mouth during and/or directly after the game tomorrow night, I stand by the Sens. I'm not sure I can say the same for the rest of the city though...