Where We Are: We will be playing on the back half two-games-in-two-nights. Perhaps that won't matter as it will be just the second game of the season and they will have the True Blue loud and proud on a Saturday night at the Garden. I won't even bring my sign from last season!Where They Are: Ottawa will be playing their season opener after one awful summer. They were dragged through the saga that was Dany Heatley and came out of it for the worse. They picked up one-year-wonder Jon Cheechoo and the mediocre (and possible still concussed) Milan Michalek. They also added the oft-injured Pascal Leclaire to somehow solidify their goaltending. He is the Marian Gaborik of the crease - stellar when healthy, but rarely healthy.
Who To Watch For: Ottawa also brought in Alex Kovalev and Kovy seems to love playing against the Rangers - two goals in the Montreal Massacre among many other games. Even with Heater gone, the Sens still have the ageless Daniel Alfredsson and the supremely skilled Jason Spezza. Another guy to keep an eye on is Ryan Shannon, who really looked quite good at the end of last season and could be primed for a breakout year.
What To Watch For: After a grinding training camp that was so very tough by all accounts, the Rangers jump right into the frying pan with back to backs so their conditioning is something to be quite wary of. Also see who gets booed more during the pre-game introductions - Wade Redden or Michal Rozsival. I honestly think that Donald Brashear will get a mixed reaction while the two over-priced defenseman get some well-earned flak. My guess is Rozy based on his abominable preseason but he wasn't booed every time he touched the puck like Redden did.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: A win. The Blueshirts will almost have a mulligan for Friday night no matter how bad it is as the Pens will be riding the Stanley Cup emotion through their home opener. If the Rangers stumble out of the gate Saturday though, it could get ugly. Speaking of ugly, hopefully we won't see any rookies make the same mistake that Brandon Dubinsky did trying to prove themselves. Let them prove themselves with scoring and let goon do his job. On that note, this will be a big test for Donald Brashear as Ottawa will put Jarkko Ruutu out on the ice and we all know what impact Ruutu has. Chris Neil is also still on the Sens but perhaps he will be a little gun-shy after the ass-kicking he got at the hands of Milan Lucic during preseason.
Also Check Out: Sens Army and Five For Smiting and Black Aces, no not Eddie O and Mike Hudson.
Peepin' Foes: Ottawa Senators - A Hockey Legacy
In the world of professional ice hockey, few teams have captured the hearts of fans like the Ottawa Senators. With a storied history, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to the game, the Senators have left an indelible mark on the NHL. In this article, we will explore the captivating story of the Ottawa Senators, from their early days to their remarkable achievements. We will also address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide insights into this iconic franchise.
The Birth of the Ottawa Senators
Early Beginnings
The Ottawa Senators trace their roots back to the early days of ice hockey. The team was founded in 1883 as the Ottawa Hockey Club, making it one of the oldest hockey franchises in the world.
Stanley Cup Glory
The Senators quickly became a powerhouse in the early years of the NHL, winning multiple Stanley Cup championships. Their first victory came in 1903 when they defeated the Montreal Victorias.
The Original Senators and Relocation
The original Ottawa Senators faced financial difficulties during the 1930s and were eventually relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where they became the St. Louis Eagles. This marked the end of an era for the Senators.
The Modern Ottawa Senators
Expansion Team
The modern Ottawa Senators came into existence in 1992 when the NHL expanded. They quickly became a beloved franchise in the league.
Notable Players and Moments
Erik Karlsson
Erik Karlsson is one of the most iconic players in Senators history. The star defenseman won the Norris Trophy multiple times during his career in Ottawa.
Daniel Alfredsson
Daniel Alfredsson, affectionately known as "Alfie," was the heart and soul of the Senators for many years. He remains one of the franchise's all-time greats.
Stanley Cup Finals in 2007
In 2007, the Senators reached the Stanley Cup Finals, marking a historic moment for the team. Although they didn't secure the championship, the run to the finals was a source of pride for fans.
FAQs: Unraveling the Legacy of the Senators
As the Ottawa Senators continue to make headlines in the NHL, questions often arise about their history, players, and impact on the sport. Here are some FAQs that provide insights into the Ottawa Senators:
1. Why are the Ottawa Senators often referred to as the "Sens"?
The nickname "Sens" is a common abbreviation for the Ottawa Senators. It's a more informal and shorter way to refer to the team.
2. What is the significance of the team's red and black colors?
The red and black colors of the Ottawa Senators are part of the team's identity and heritage. They symbolize the rich history of the franchise.
3. How have the Senators adapted to changes in the NHL landscape in recent years?
The Senators have focused on rebuilding and developing young talent to remain competitive in the evolving NHL. They have made strategic trades and acquisitions to strengthen their roster.
4. What role has the Canadian Tire Centre played in the Senators' history?
The Canadian Tire Centre is the home arena of the Ottawa Senators. It has been the backdrop for many memorable moments in Senators history and is a gathering place for fans.
5. How has the fan base of the Ottawa Senators contributed to the team's legacy?
The passionate and dedicated fan base of the Senators has been a driving force behind the team's success. The "Sens Army" is known for its unwavering support, even during challenging times.
The Ottawa Senators, with their rich history, commitment to the game, and iconic moments, hold a special place in the world of professional ice hockey. From their early days as a dominant force to their modern resurgence, the Senators continue to captivate fans and inspire the next generation of hockey players.
As they strive for future success in the NHL, the Ottawa Senators serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy that can be built through dedication, resilience, and a deep love for the game. Whether it's the iconic red and black jerseys or the roar of the crowd at the Canadian Tire Centre, the Senators are a testament to the power of hockey to unite communities and create lasting memories. So, as we celebrate the Ottawa Senators and their remarkable journey, we look forward to the exciting chapters that lie ahead for this beloved franchise.
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