The Ottawa Senators are set to face the Washington Capitals in a New Year’s Day matinee showdown. This match will take place at 1 p.m. ET at the Canadian Tire Centre.
Match Preview: Senators vs. Capitals
As the Senators prepare to meet the Capitals, all eyes will be on Alex Ovechkin. The legendary goal scorer, now 40 years old, has played in all 40 games this season, racking up 34 points. This game could be one of his last appearances in Ottawa, making it a significant occasion for fans.
Recent Performances
The Senators enter this match with recent highs and lows. Despite enjoying a four-game winning streak, they faltered with three consecutive losses just before the New Year. The team currently sits with an 18-15-5 record and must regain momentum to avoid slipping further in the standings.
In contrast, the Capitals are having a successful season with a current record of 21-14-5. They recently celebrated a 6-3 victory over the New York Rangers on December 31, where Tom Wilson demonstrated his skills by achieving a Gordie Howe hat trick and reaching his 200th NHL goal.
Key Players to Watch
- Tim Stützle: With 17 points in his last 10 games, he’s crucial for Senators’ offense.
- Ovechkin: The Capitals’ veteran player continues to be a significant scoring threat.
- Tom Wilson: His recent performance showcases his important role in Washington’s success.
Lineup Changes and Injuries
For the Senators, Tyler Kleven returns from injury, while Lars Eller is sidelined with a broken foot. The Capitals will also be missing key players, including Pierre-Luc Dubois due to a lower body injury.
Previous Encounter
The Senators faced the Capitals earlier in the season and dominated with a 7-1 victory on October 25. Drake Batherson and Dylan Cozens each contributed significantly in that match, recorded two goals and two assists.
Conclusion
As the Senators look to bounce back, facing a formidable Capitals team will be a challenge. With playoff positions at stake, both teams will be eager to secure crucial points in this early January matchup.
