In one of the back-and-forth video games of the season, the Ottawa Senators edged the Los Angeles Kings 8-7 in an extra time thriller. Among the many key takeaways, Josh Norris performed the hero for the Senators, scoring the game-winner simply 56 seconds into OT to cap off his two-goal efficiency. This high-scoring recreation was stuffed with momentum swings, standout offensive performances, and defensive breakdowns.
Norris led his crew with two objectives in an exciting 8-7 extra time victory in opposition to the Kings. Zack MacEwen additionally scored twice. Nonetheless, the Senators confronted defensive struggles, significantly within the internet. Anton Forsberg and Mads Sogaard each had difficult nights.
What have been the three key takeaways from the sport?
Takeaway One: Josh Norris Leads Senators with Large Efficiency
Josh Norris was the clear star of the night time for the Senators, scoring twice. His objectives included the game-winner in extra time. He additionally contributed a power-play help, making him a key in Ottawa’s victory.
Norris gave the Senators their first lead halfway by means of the third interval. That didn’t final lengthy, as Los Angeles’ Tanner Jeannot tied the sport once more. Nonetheless, Norris got here by means of within the clutch throughout extra time. He slipped a puck previous Kings goaltender Darcy Kuemper to seal the win.
Norris’ two-goal efficiency was his first of the season. His robust begin with 4 factors in three video games is a promising signal that he’s on observe to reclaim his type from the 2021-22 season. That was his finest season when he put in 35 objectives. Along with his offensive prowess, Norris appears to be like able to develop into a pivotal participant for the Senators once more.
Takeaway Two: Zack MacEwen Sparks Senators’ Comeback
Whereas Norris grabbed the headlines, Zack MacEwen’s contribution was equally essential. MacEwen scored two objectives within the second interval to assist Ottawa overcome an early 3-1 deficit. His scoring got here at a vital time and served because the spark the Senators wanted to shift momentum.
Regardless of taking part in simply 5:14, the least ice time amongst Ottawa’s forwards, MacEwen made essentially the most of his possibilities. Recognized extra for his bodily play, MacEwen stunned many together with his offensive affect. He confirmed his capability to step up when wanted. Though he’ll unlikely repeat his efficiency quickly, his contributions confirmed the depth Ottawa can depend on shifting ahead.
Takeaway Three: Defensive Struggles and Goaltending Considerations
The Senators’ offensive explosion overshadowed their goaltenders’ powerful night time. Anton Forsberg began within the internet. He was changed early within the second interval after permitting three objectives on 9 photographs. Mads Sogaard, who was referred to as up on an emergency foundation earlier within the day, took over. He didn’t fare significantly better, permitting 4 objectives on 17 photographs.
Whereas the crew’s offensive firepower was sufficient to win, Ottawa’s defensive points and goaltending struggles elevate issues. The crew gave up seven objectives, together with two power-play markers. As well as, Forsberg and Sogaard had iffy outings. Forsberg was pulled after a collision however remained on the bench, indicating he was not critically injured.
Beginning goaltender Linus Ullmark is sidelined as a result of a muscle pressure. Ottawa’s goaltending depth might be examined within the coming video games if he stays out. Will Forsberg or Sogaard begin the subsequent recreation if Ullmark is able to return?
What’s Subsequent for the Senators?
Regardless of the defensive issues, the Senators confirmed resilience and scoring depth that may serve them nicely because the season progresses. Ottawa now turns its consideration to internet hosting the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night time. The Devils have misplaced solely as soon as this season. The Senators might want to tighten up defensively whereas persevering with to capitalize on their offensive momentum.
If Norris, Tim Stutzle, Brady Tkachuk, and different Senator gamers can carry out at a excessive degree, the Senators have the potential to maintain tempo within the aggressive Atlantic Division. That stated, addressing their defensive lapses and stabilizing their goaltending might be essential if the crew hopes to make a severe playoff push.
Associated: Linus Ullmark Out for Senators, Coping with Attainable Harm
