Can the Ottawa Senators Dominate the Arizona Coyotes at Canadian Tire Centre?
As the Ottawa Senators gear up to face off against the Arizona Coyotes, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying match at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Senators, coming off a decisive 4-2 victory over Tampa Bay Lightning on February 20th, have shown that they can bring both offensive prowess and defensive solidity when it counts.
In their last encounter with Tampa Bay, the Senators demonstrated a balanced attack with goals spread across three periods and an impressive shooting percentage of 14 percent. Their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was matched by their tenacity on defense, blocking a total of 26 shots and delivering 28 hits throughout the game. This level of performance is exactly what will be needed when they take on Arizona.
The Coyotes should not be underestimated though. Despite being visitors, they will come prepared to challenge every puck drop. However, if OTT can maintain their even-strength dominance as seen in recent games and replicate their disciplined play that limited penalties to just two instances against Tampa Bay Lightning, they stand a good chance of controlling the game's tempo.
OTT's goaltending has also been noteworthy; boasting a save percentage that rounded up perfectly in their last outing – an indicator of reliability between the pipes which could prove crucial against ARI's forwards.
On special teams, there is room for improvement for OTT. With no powerplay goals during their clash with Tampa Bay Lightning despite one opportunity presented to them – efficiency in these moments could be a game-changer in upcoming matches.
Looking back further at OTT’s performance against Chicago Blackhawks on February 17th reveals some concerns regarding shot conversion rates; only managing two goals from an overwhelming 42 shots indicates potential wastefulness upfront which cannot afford repetition against ARI.
However, it was quite different story when facing Anaheim Ducks on February 16th where despite outshooting them by a significant margin (34-20), OTT fell short defensively allowing five goals - highlighting inconsistency within their own zone that needs addressing before facing ARI’s offense.
With these insights into recent performances and areas requiring attention or continuation of form – fans are right to expect an engaging battle where OTT should look to assert themselves early and maintain pressure throughout all three periods.
The scheduled date for this must-watch encounter is March 2nd at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. Fans can catch all action live starting from ESPN+ online or SCRIPPS network if following away from home.