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Ottawa Senators Shut Out by New York Rangers: What Went Wrong?

The Ottawa Senators faced a challenging night at Madison Square Garden, succumbing to the New York Rangers with a final score of 4-0. The Senators' season record now stands at 0-1, while the Rangers improve to 1-0.


Apr 15, 2024; New York, New York, USA;  New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) defends the net from a shot on goal attempt by Ottawa Senators right wing Drake Batherson (19) in the second period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

From the opening faceoff, the Senators struggled to find their rhythm against a formidable Rangers squad. Despite managing to fire off 25 shots on goal throughout the game, none found their way past the opposing goaltender. The team's shooting accuracy was notably absent as they ended with a shooting percentage of zero. Even when presented with powerplay opportunities, they failed to capitalize; two chances yielded no goals and only two shots.


The defensive aspect didn't fare much better for the Senators. They allowed four goals from 34 shots against them, reflecting challenges in both goaltending and on-ice defense. The goaltender made an admirable effort with 30 saves but ultimately suffered from the relentless pressure applied by the Rangers' offense.


Apr 15, 2024; New York, New York, USA;  New York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad (93) and Ottawa Senators defenseman Erik Brannstrom (26) chase the puck in the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

In terms of physical play, Ottawa did outmatch New York in hits with a total of 21 compared to their opponent's 15. However, this aggressive play did not translate into control over puck possession or scoring opportunities as evidenced by their three penalties amounting to six penalty minutes and an overall plus-minus rating of -20.


Faceoffs were one area where Ottawa showed some dominance; winning more than half at fifty-three percent success rate but this small victory was overshadowed by their inability to convert possession into points on the scoreboard.


Apr 15, 2024; New York, New York, USA;  Ottawa Senators defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker (24) and New York Rangers left wing Artemi Panarin (10) battle for control of the puck in the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

The lone bright spot for Ottawa might be found in their shot-blocking efforts where they managed fifteen blocks throughout three periods – showing some resilience despite what was clearly an off night for them offensively and defensively.


Looking ahead after this tough outing, fans can catch the next game featuring Ottawa Senators as they visit TD Garden in Boston against Boston Bruins scheduled for April 16th at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. This match will be available for viewing on ESPN+ online and NESN television network – offering supporters another chance to rally behind their team as they seek redemption on ice.

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