Opinion
3 min read

Senators March into the Storm at Amalie Arena

As the Ottawa Senators prepare to face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena, fans of the latter should be brimming with confidence. The Lightning's recent performances have been nothing short of electric, and they're poised to continue their high-voltage play.


Nov 4, 2023; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) controls the puck in the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on December 24th against the Washington Capitals, TB demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess. With a shootout victory that saw them score two goals while conceding only one, their defensive solidity was as clear as day. The goaltending was impeccable with a save percentage of 100 percent, turning away all but one of the 34 shots faced. This brick wall defense is something that Ottawa will find challenging to penetrate.


The offensive side for TB wasn't as prolific in terms of scoring during regulation time in that game; however, they managed to secure a win through patience and precision in the shootout phase. They'll need to carry this clutch scoring ability into their next game if they want to secure another win.


Nov 4, 2023; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Nicholas Paul (20) battle  with Ottawa Senators defenseman Jake Sanderson (85) for control of the puck in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at Tampa Bay's performance on December 22nd against Vegas Golden Knights reveals an even more dominant display. A resounding victory with five goals scored showcases what TB is capable of when firing on all cylinders. Their powerplay clicked effectively with two goals from four opportunities – an impressive fifty percent success rate that could spell trouble for any team.


But it's not just about offense; Tampa Bay has shown remarkable balance across the board. Their faceoff win percentage stood strong at fifty-two percent against Vegas, which allowed them control over puck possession – a critical factor in dictating game pace and creating scoring chances.


Nov 4, 2023; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning defensemen Zach Bogosian (24) and Ottawa Senators left wing Dominik Kubalik (81) follow the puck in the first period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

On December 20th versus St Louis Blues, TB truly shone brightly by netting six goals while allowing only one past their goalie – another testament to their solid goaltending and defensive work which has been consistent throughout these games.


The Senators are certainly no pushovers though; they'll come into this match looking for opportunities to exploit any lapses in concentration from Tampa Bay Lightning's side. However, given TBL’s recent form both defensively and offensively across these past games, it would take something special from Ottawa Senators to disrupt TBL’s rhythm.


With all eyes set on February 20th when these two teams clash at Amalie Arena in Tampa FL - fans can expect an intense battle where TBL will likely leverage home advantage and aim for dominance early on.


For those who wish not miss out on what promises be an enthralling encounter can tune into ESPN+ online or BSSUN channel 653 if watching from home territory starting at midnight Eastern Time Zone (ET).

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