Introduction

The Ottawa Senators are gearing up for their final game of the homestand as they face the Anaheim Ducks tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Canadian Tire Centre. Following a disappointing 4-2 loss to the New York Islanders last Sunday, the Senators are eager to bounce back. Expect to see starting goaltender Linus Ullmark in action, as backup Anton Forsberg struggled in the last game, allowing three goals on just 12 shots.

Game Records and Betting Odds

The Senators enter this matchup with a record of 12-13-2, while the Ducks find themselves at 10-12-4. Betting odds favor Anaheim slightly at -104, while Ottawa sits at +128. This game offers Ottawa a chance to finish the homestand with six points out of a possible eight, a significant boost for their season performance at home, where they boast an 8-6-1 record.

Previous Encounters

This match marks the second and final meeting of the season between the Senators and Ducks. In their prior encounter on December 1, Ottawa fell short in a hard-fought 4-3 shootout after trailing three times during the game. The Senators will look to capitalize on recent home ice performances and secure a win as they aim to climb the standings.

Offensive Struggles on the Blue Line

A persistent issue for the Senators this season has been their lack of offensive output from their defensemen. With only five goals scored from the blue line so far, the Senators rank 28th in the NHL for points from defenders. Key players like Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot need to step up in that aspect; Sanderson has gone without a goal since October, and Chabot has limited himself to just one goal and 13 points over 27 games. Increased contributions from the blueliners could be critical for the Senators as they strive for consistency and victories.

Anaheim Ducks Looking for Momentum

On the other side of the ice, the Ducks are also in search of a morale boost after acquiring defenseman Jacob Trouba from the New York Rangers. Trouba made his debut on Monday against the Canadiens, logging over 22 minutes on the ice. With the Ducks losing that game in a shootout, he’ll look to help strengthen their defensive lineup against Ottawa.

Injury Reports

Both teams are also dealing with injuries, with Ottawa missing defenseman Artem Zub due to a fractured foot and forward David Perron listed as week-to-week with an upper body injury. The Ducks are facing issues of their own, with center Trevor Zegras on the injured reserve and fellow center Axel Andersson considered day-to-day.

Conclusion and Watch Info

Fans in attendance can look forward to an exciting showdown as the Senators aim to finish strong at home. Will Ottawa’s offense finally break through from the blue line, or will Trouba make an immediate impact for the Ducks? Tune in to Sportsnet or TSN 1200 AM to catch the action live!