Recap
3 min read

Ottawa Senators' Powerplay Sparks, But Can't Ignite Victory at SAP Center

The Ottawa Senators faced off against the San Jose Sharks in a game that ended with a 2-1 scoreline. The Senators now hold a record of 1-2, while the Sharks improved to 2-1. Despite the loss, the Senators showcased resilience and tactical acumen throughout the match.


Mar 9, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Kyle Burroughs (4) checks Ottawa Senators center Tim Stutzle (18) during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

At SAP Center at San Jose, fans of both teams witnessed an intense battle on ice. The Ottawa Senators came into this game aiming to improve their standing but fell just short despite a strong performance. The team's powerplay unit managed to convert one of their three opportunities into a goal during the second period, which was also their only goal of the night. This successful powerplay saw them take eight shots and win four faceoffs in these situations.


The Senators' goaltender had an impressive night between the pipes with a save percentage rounding up to 100 percent on even-strength shots but ultimately conceded two goals while shorthanded. On defense, they were disciplined and robust; blocking 17 shots and delivering ten hits over three periods.


Mar 9, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; Ottawa Senators center Tim Stutzle (18) plays the puck against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

Offensively, Ottawa took more shots than San Jose with a total of 32 attempts but struggled to find the back of the net due to an outstanding performance by San Jose's goaltender who saved 31 out of those attempts. Faceoffs were another area where Ottawa excelled; winning 35 out of 57 draws which translates into approximately a 61 percent success rate.


San Jose capitalized on their powerplays scoring twice from five shots when they had more skaters on ice due to penalties by Ottawa players who spent eight minutes in total serving minor infractions. These crucial moments proved decisive as both teams registered ten takeaways each indicating an evenly matched contest in terms of turnovers.


Mar 9, 2024; San Jose, California, USA; Ottawa Senators center Tim Stutzle (18) shakes hands with his teammates after scoring a goal against the San Jose Sharks during the second period at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports

As for individual performances from Ottawa players – there were notable efforts across all lines – yet it wasn't enough against a determined home side that made fewer mistakes when it mattered most.


Looking ahead for fans eagerly anticipating future games, 'the' Ottawa Senators will be hosting 'the' Pittsburgh Penguins at Canadian Tire Centre on March 12th at around six o'clock Eastern Time (ET). This encounter can be followed live through broadcasts available on ESPN+ online or SportsNet PT television network for those wishing to catch every moment as it unfolds.

Rate the article

Related stories

Ottawa Senators' Late Surge Not Enough to Tame Vegas Golden Knights
Recap

Ottawa Senators' Late Surge Not Enough to Tame Vegas Golden Knights

3 min read
Can the Ottawa Senators' Tactical Shifts Outmaneuver the Edmonton Oilers?
Recap

Can the Ottawa Senators' Tactical Shifts Outmaneuver the Edmonton Oilers?

4 min read
Ottawa Senators Stumble Against Carolina Hurricanes' Power Play Mastery
Recap

Ottawa Senators Stumble Against Carolina Hurricanes' Power Play Mastery

3 min read