Opinion
4 min read

Ottawa Senators Set to Host Florida Panthers in High-Stakes Showdown

As the Ottawa Senators prepare to welcome the Florida Panthers at the Canadian Tire Centre, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Senators, coming off a decisive 5-2 victory against the New Jersey Devils on March 24th, will look to capitalize on their momentum and deliver another stellar performance.


Feb 20, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Ottawa Senators right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) looks to pass the puck as Florida Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling (42) defends during the third period at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game, the Senators showcased a balanced offensive attack with five goals scored and an impressive shooting percentage of 20 percent. Their ability to convert shots into goals was evident as they peppered the Devils' net with 25 shots. Moreover, their defensive play was solid; they blocked 11 shots and limited giveaways to seven while taking away eight from their opponents. The team's plus-minus rating of +13 is indicative of their strong play at both ends of the ice.


The powerplay unit didn't manage to score despite five opportunities but maintained pressure with two shots on goal. However, it was during even-strength where OTT truly shined, scoring four out of their five goals. The penalty kill also stood out by notching a shorthanded goal and maintaining a perfect save percentage during those situations.


Feb 20, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Ottawa Senators right wing Drake Batherson (19) redirects the puck as Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) prepares to make a save in the first period at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side of this matchup stands FLA who will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for OTT. While statistics from FLA's recent games are not provided here, one can assume that they will come prepared and eager for victory.


OTT's goaltending deserves praise as well; saving all but two shots faced for an impeccable save percentage rounded up to 100 percent reflects reliability between the pipes that could prove crucial in tight matchups like these.


Feb 20, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) congratulates center Anton Lundell (15) on scoring the winning overtime goal against the Ottawa Senators at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

However, there are areas where improvement is needed if OTT hopes to sustain its success against FLA. Faceoff win percentage stood at just 44 percent in their last game – winning puck possession battles could be key in controlling the game’s tempo against FLA’s likely aggressive approach.


Looking back at OTT's performance against St. Louis Blues on March 21st provides further insight into potential areas of focus. Despite firing an impressive number of shots (39), only two found the back of net – highlighting efficiency as an area needing attention especially when considering that they won over half (53 percent) faceoffs which should have translated into more scoring opportunities.


It is essential for OTT not only maintain its offensive prowess demonstrated in recent outings but also tighten up faceoff plays and capitalize on powerplay chances which could make all difference when facing high-caliber teams like FLA.


The upcoming clash scheduled for April 4th promises high stakes action where every shift counts towards securing those valuable points late season standings race intensifies each passing day - fans surely won’t want miss out witnessing potential playoff preview unfold right before eyes!


Fans can catch this must-see battle live at Canadian Tire Centre or tune into ESPN+ online or BSFL TV network starting sharply at 7:00 PM EDT.

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