Did Montreal Canadiens' Powerplay Fizzle Against Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre?

The Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre, resulting in a 5-2 defeat for the visitors. With this loss, the Canadiens' record now stands at 39-31-9, while the Senators improved to 43-30-6. Despite a valiant effort in the second period where they scored both of their goals, Montreal couldn't overcome Ottawa's consistent scoring across all three periods.

Montreal's Offensive Struggles

The Canadiens struggled to find their rhythm offensively throughout most of the game. They managed only 22 shots on goal compared to Ottawa's 33. The team's shooting percentage was a modest 9 percent, highlighting their difficulty in converting opportunities into goals. Nick Suzuki and Christian Dvorak were responsible for Montreal’s two goals during an energetic second period that briefly brought them back into contention.

Cole Caufield contributed with an assist but was otherwise kept quiet by Ottawa’s defense. His three shots on goal did not find their mark as he ended with a minus-three rating for his time on ice. Juraj Slafkovsky also added an assist but could not make further impact despite his efforts.

Montreal's powerplay unit had six shots across two opportunities but failed to capitalize on these chances, which proved costly as they sought to close the gap against a disciplined Senators team.

Ottawa's Consistent Pressure

The home team maintained pressure from start to finish, beginning with two early goals in the first period that set them up for success. Shane Pinto led Ottawa’s charge with standout performance earning him top star honors; his contributions were pivotal in maintaining momentum throughout.

Ridly Greig and Michael Amadio also shone brightly for Ottawa; Greig secured second star recognition while Amadio took third star honors thanks to their effective playmaking and defensive work that stifled many of Montreal’s advances.

Ottawa demonstrated superior faceoff capabilities winning 51 percent of draws which helped control possession effectively over key stretches of playtime—an area where Montreal fell short despite winning half of its faceoffs during powerplays.

Defensively solidifying victory late into third period via empty-netter sealed fate ensuring no comeback would materialize from visiting side despite valiant attempts by players like Brendan Gallagher who registered four hits trying spark life back into lineup when needed most yet ultimately falling short due lack cohesive execution overall strategy employed against formidable opponent such as this one encountered here tonight within confines own arena setting stage next encounter looming large horizon soon enough indeed!

Looking Ahead

As fans look forward eagerly anticipating next matchup involving beloved Habs taking place April 12th scheduled begin promptly around evening hour precisely seven o'clock Eastern Daylight Time located Scotiabank Arena situated heart Toronto city limits broadcast live courtesy ESPN+ network providing ample opportunity catch action unfold real-time basis wherever may reside globally speaking course naturally so remember tune accordingly support favorite squadron quest redemption forthcoming clash awaits eagerly anticipated showdown between storied rivals sure deliver excitement aplenty once again without doubt whatsoever rest assured dear reader until then stay tuned remain engaged community spirit alive well thriving midst passionate fanbase worldwide alike always forevermore amen!