The Ottawa Senators edged the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 on Thursday night, taking home a crucial win as they fight for a playoff spot. Thomas Chabot and Tim Stutzle scored in the first period, helping Ottawa build an early lead. Although the Red Wings fought back with three third-period goals, Ottawa held on for their eighth win in their last 11 games.
Linus Ullmark was sharp. He made 31 saves to keep the Senators in control throughout the contest. David Perron and Michael Amadio added goals, helping the team hold the lead despite Detroit’s late pushback, while the Red Wings couldn’t complete the comeback with their fourth loss in five games.
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In goal, Alex Lyon allowed three goals on 10 shots and was replaced by Cam Talbot, who finished with 21 saves. With this win, the Senators now sit in the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, six points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens, who hold the second wild-card position. Will this point total be enough for the Senators to gain in the playoffs this season?
Item One: Linus Ullmark Stands Tall Despite Penalty Kill Challenges
Ullmark made 31 saves to help his team hang on for the win. That said, it wasn’t easy. He faced a relentless penalty kill, including five minor penalties and a fighting major. Still, give Ullmark credit. He allowed just a single power-play goal in the third period. During a three-goal surge from Detroit in the final frame, his hang-in-there spirit helped keep his team in control.
Ullmark has been stellar recently, with a record of 8-2-1 in 11 starts since the beginning of March. He steps up under pressure, which has been a key in Ottawa’s strong push for the postseason. Thursday’s game was another reminder of why he’s crucial to the team’s success. Credit Ullmark’s strong goaltending as a foundation for the team’s impressive run.
Item Two: Tim Stutzle Breaks Goal Drought
After an impressive start to the month, until last night, Stutzle seemed to have disappeared. He ended a 10-game goal drought with a beautiful wrist shot past Lyon in the first period. Stutzle’s goal helped extend the Senators’ lead to 2-0 early in the game.
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Stutzle remains one of Ottawa’s top contributors. He’s registered 71 points (21 goals, 50 assists) in 71 games this season, making him a point-per-game player. Last night marked his third straight 50-assist season. The youngster is solidifying his role as a key player for the team.
Item Three: David Perron Continues Late-Season Surge with Goal
Perron scored to make another strong game in his recent surge. An emotional tribute from Red Wings fans, celebrating Perron’s two seasons with the team, made the game more memorable. In every recent game, Perron has been part of the action.
He’s been on fire lately, recording 10 points (including seven goals) in his last 13 games. This late-season form mirrors his strong finish from last season when he registered 12 points in the Red Wings’ final 11 games. Perron’s veteran production could be the foundation of the team’s success if they make the playoffs. He certainly has the resume and experience to produce at the right time.
Item Four: Thomas Chabot Breaks Goal Drought with Sixth of the Season
Thomas Chabot scored his sixth goal early in the first period on the Senators’ first shot of the game. It was his first goal since Feb. 26, ending a 13-game drought. The defenseman has 34 points in 70 games this season. Although the emergence of Jake Sanderson has overshadowed his role, he’s still a steady 35-40-point defenseman. That’s a solid offensive contribution that can help the team from the blue line.
Item Five: Michael Amadio: Key Game-Winner in 4-3 Victory
Michael Amadio scored the game-winner in Thursday’s win. His sixth goal in March was a well-placed wrist shot through Talbot’s pads, coming on a breakaway halfway through the third period. It sealed the deal for Ottawa. Amadio has been on a hot streak lately, scoring six goals and three assists in his last 13 games.
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With the goal, Amadio continued his steady output. He’s scored at least 11 goals in his previous four seasons. With 23 points this season, Amadio has proven to be a solid contributor. Drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in round 3 (90th overall) in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, he’s built a solid NHL career as a depth forward.
What’s Next for the Senators?
Ottawa has been playing some of its best hockey recently, putting up a 7-3-0 record over its last 10 games. Their win on Thursday helped solidify their position in the wild-card race. With six points separating them from the Canadiens, they’ve built a nice little buffer that could be critical down the stretch.
As the postseason approaches, Ottawa’s recent form and clutch wins like Thursday’s could make them a challenging contender for a playoff berth. The team has received contributions throughout the lineup. They have a solid leader in captain Brady Tkachuk and determined goaltending with Ullmark. Could they be a postseason surprise?
