The Ottawa Senators are riding a three-game winning streak as they prepare to enter a crucial stretch against Atlantic Division rivals, starting with a match against the Boston Bruins this Sunday night. The Senators’ holiday schedule includes compelling matchups against the Buffalo Sabres at the Canadian Tire Centre on Tuesday and the Toronto Maple Leafs next Saturday, allowing them the opportunity to gain significant ground in the standings.
Currently, Ottawa has won four of their last five games, placing them just three points behind both the Bruins and the Tampa Bay Lightning, who are tied at 41 points. With the tight competition in the division and conference, every win is essential for the Senators as they strive for playoff positioning.
This upcoming game will also conclude the Senators’ season series against the Bruins, with Ottawa having won two of the previous three encounters. The teams previously met in October, when Ottawa delivered a decisive 7-2 win. However, the Bruins exacted vengeance with a 3-2 overtime victory in November, before the Senators claimed their latest meeting, 5-3.
Although the Bruins started strong but have recently faltered, losing three out of their last four contests, including a shootout defeat to the Vancouver Canucks, the Senators are coming off a 6-4 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. A win on Sunday would mark the Senators’ first four-game winning streak of the season.
In terms of lineup changes, Tyler Kleven will be absent due to injury, leading to expected lineup adjustments. Nikolas Matinpalo is poised to take Kleven’s place on the third pairing. Previously, Thomas Chabot delivered an impressive performance upon his return to the ice, contributing with an assist and playing extensive minutes after Kleven’s departure.
On the Bruins’ side, David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie are among the leading scorers, with Geekie currently leading the team with 25 goals and 39 points. Despite a notable drop-off in offensive output beyond these players, Boston remains a formidable opponent.
As both teams played on Saturday, neither squad conducted a morning skate before their matchup. Following a start against Chicago, the Senators are expected to return to Linus Ullmark as their goaltender, while Joonas Korpisalo is anticipated to represent the Bruins in this duel against former rivals.
With high stakes and fierce competition on the horizon, the Senators are focused on maintaining their momentum and seizing the opportunity to elevate their position in the standings.