tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63029106503647448202024-02-21T12:03:28.658-05:00Ottawa Senators Rumours and AnalysisRumours, thoughts and analysis concerning the Ottawa Senators NHL Hockey team. Check back often, we have fresh content daily.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-74399912771076431302011-01-23T14:59:00.002-05:002011-01-23T15:07:10.297-05:00Sens rebuild underway?Hey, it's been a year since I last wrote anything so what the heck. Here's a tidbit for you:<br /><br />The Sens are working on something with Vancouver for goalie prospect Cory Schneider.<br /><br />This all fits in with the <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/sens-move-into-rebuilding-mode/article1880105/comments/">team's plan</a> outlined by owner, Eugene Melnyk.<br /><br />Naturally, the team wants to get younger and cheaper for a couple of years.<br /><br />My opinion is that in the interim, they should chase impending UFA <a href="http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=71387">Matt Moulson</a>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-60086631149888866282010-01-17T02:05:00.003-05:002010-04-29T15:43:09.991-04:00Sens Stab Habs 4-2A big win for the team tonight. <br />The goaltending controversy continues for Coach Cory as Mike Brodeur played another solid game. He's now 3-0 with a .966 sv% and a GAA of 1.00 for those of you keeping score at home.<br />Scoring for the Sens was Smith (his first NHL goal and shorthanded no less), Alfredsson, Phillips and Fisher into the empty net.<br />Perfect road game and a good team effort tonight. Zack Smith is really finding his niche here so far since his call up from AHL's Binghamton.<br /><br />Here are some highlights for you to enjoy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Video Removed</span>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-10335350236419614492010-01-14T22:05:00.003-05:002010-01-14T22:15:05.659-05:00Mike Brodeur shuts out Rags 2-0Great team effort tonight by the Sens in getting out of their recent 5 game funk.<br />Goaltending had been a problem over that stretch and it cost goalie coach, Eli Wilson his job. Long overdue move in my opinion. <br /><br />The team ended up doing more about their goaltending tonight than just fire an over rated, teflon coach. Starter Pascal Leclaire was injured in practice and backup Brian Elliot was puking his guts out all day with the flu according to the New York media.<br /><br />Enter: Mike Brodeur on emergency call up. Thank God the Sens' affiliate was in Binghamton, NY and they were playing in New York City. <br /><br />Now the team has a bit of a quagmire. Brodeur has been absolutely BRILLIANT in his 2 career NHL starts with the Senators, allowing only 1 goal in that stretch and collecting 2 wins, 1 by shutout.<br /><br />Will the Sens send Leclaire down to Binghamton for a conditioning stint once he recovers from his latest puck-in-the-face injury? Probably not a bad idea.<br /><br />If Clouston doesn't start Brodeur against the Habs next game, he's crazy.<br />Both NHL goalies have been sucking large and this guy is red hot.<br /><br />Over to you, Coach Cory.<br /><br />Oh yeah...... I almost forgot. Chris Campoli broke the scoreless game with around 2 minutes left in the third frame on a great set up from Alexei Kovalev after some hard work from Mike Fisher. The other Chris.... Kelly dumped in an empty netter to seal the deal.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-36172251046795881192009-11-27T22:41:00.002-05:002009-11-27T22:58:10.571-05:00Karlsson Recalled, Lee Sent DownThe NHL career of Senators' rookie Erik Karlsson resumes tomorrow in Boston.<br />In a game that will decide first place in the Northeast Division, Coach Cory wants to have his team firing on all cylinders and obviously feels that Karlsson has more to offer than the much maligned fellow defenseman Brian Lee.<br /><br />Lee has struggled to find his niche in the NHL thus far in his young NHL career. Is he a puck moving, offensive defenseman? Is he a big, bruising stay at home guy? Is he a power play quarterback? At times, he seems to try to be all three and all three aspects of his game suffer. This has been the story of his career thus far for the former first round draft pick. The kid has the talent and the toolbox, he just needs to put it all together and point it in the right direction.<br /><br />Karlsson, on the other hand is what he is. A slick skating, offensive defenseman with a great shot from the point on the power play. Although undersized, the young Swede can be a very useful player to his team. Since being sent down to the Sens' AHL affiliate in Binghamton, Karlsson has tallied 11 assists in 12 games while showing a little jam collecting more than his share of penalty minutes at 22 while compliling an even plus/minus rating.<br /><br />Here's hoping that Erik has adjusted to the North American game as with this call up, he will have 10 games of NHL experience which triggers the first year of his entry level contract.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-58795057916035937132009-11-27T00:31:00.003-05:002010-04-29T15:43:48.461-04:00Sens Put Colombus in a Straight Jacket 2-1Sorry about the lack of posts lately, I've been very busy. I promise to have a full team assessment shortly.<br /><br />Pascal who? Backup Brian Elliot was brilliant in the win and Jesse Winchester continues to impress. The injury depleted Sens played a strong game to get the win. Great team game that we have come to expect from this year's edition.<br /><br />The Sens are now winners of 4 of their last 5.<br /><br />Here are some highlights from tonight. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Video Removed</span>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-11810865543481650222009-11-06T11:31:00.003-05:002010-04-29T15:44:48.659-04:00Sens Bolt Past Lightning 3-2 (OT)Spezza scores the winner for the Sens after having 2 called back in the dying minutes of the 3rd.<br /><br />Neil demolishes Hedman.<br /><br />Hard fought, entertaining game. Here's some highlights.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">VIDEO REMOVED</span>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-45545399267302256252009-10-22T22:20:00.002-04:002009-10-22T22:31:21.794-04:00Leclaire Steals a Point for the SensWhat a crappy ending to an entertaining game! Nice to see the referees flex their small-man disorder urge to play God and decide the outcome of a game by calling a weak penalty in overtime to go along with awarding a 5 on 3 powerplay to the Preds with 2 minutes to go in regulation. Disgusting.<br /><br />In any event, the Sens were badly outplayed through periods and were down 3-0 with Leclaire being the only reason it was that close. He made some spectacular saves late in the period to keep it do-able with a 3 goal deficit.<br /><br />Enter the 3rd period where the Sens showed some guts and character by tying it up before it was half over.<br /><br />The teams then traded goals with the Preds having what appeared to be the last word on their generously awarded 5 on 3 powerplay with a minute left in regulation time.<br /><br />Enter Mike Fisher who worked his guts out along the boards in the dying seconds, finally kicking the puck to Alfie who quickly dished it to Phillips who scored the tying goal with 2 seconds remaining to gain Leclaire the point he deserved.<br /><br />Welcome overtime where Carkner is called on a questionable trip as he himself was falling. Powerplay goal by the Preds, game over. <br /><br />Tough finish for a goalie and team that hung in there and never quit. 5-2-1 is a pretty good start to the season.<br /><br />Next up: The Savard and Lucic - less Bruins on Saturday. Should be a helluva game.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-48321217098759594382009-10-17T21:38:00.002-04:002009-10-17T21:49:18.066-04:00Sens Hypnotize Habs 3-1The Ottawa Senators dumped the Montreal Canadiens in Alex Kovalev's return to the Bell Center.<br /><br />Scoring for the Sens: Neil, Alfredsson and Kovalev.<br /><br />OK, this was a pretty boring game and the difference was, once again, Pascal Leclaire.<br />The Sens were completely outplayed in the first half of the game with Leclaire completely stoning the Habs. Montreal outshot the Sens something like 10-3 in the first, yet the game ended 1-1 after a late Montreal goal. Montreal then gave up a powerplay marker to Captain Alfie and appeared to lose their mojo after that. Kovalev iced his former team's dream of a 3rd period comeback and that was that.<br /><br />A decent road win for the Sens, lulling their opponent to sleep while allowing their goalie to shut the door. I can't even count how many shots were blocked by Sens' defenders. Nice job.<br /><br />Who would have thunk that Alex Picard and Matt Carkner would be the 2nd pairing?<br /><br />All you "fans" who wanted to trade Alex, I hope you enjoy your crow. I liked him last year and like him more this year. He and Carks make a great pairing. Alex seems to play with a little more confidence out there knowing Big Country has his back.<br /><br />Jason Spezza? Hello? Where are you?<br /><br />Amazing the team is winning WITHOUT their number one centre firing isn't it.<br />That speaks volumes to the depth up front on this team.<br /><br />Sens are still first in the division.... houda thunk that too?Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-44514132931334446072009-10-15T22:08:00.006-04:002009-10-15T23:29:34.401-04:00Sens Jolt Lightning 7-1<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CFnU222Otig&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CFnU222Otig&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Well, well, well.... The hard work pays off for Mach 9, Milan Michalek. After buzzing and threatening all season, he breaks out for a hat trick including 2 shorthanded goals. I wonder when the last time Heatley scored 2 shorties in one game? Just sayin'.<br /><br />Also scoring for the Sens were: Picard, Foligno, Kovalev and Ruutu. Meanwhile, Alfredsson and Ruutu had 3 point nights.<br /><br />The Sens were completely dominated by the Bolts during the first 3 minutes of the game until Alexei Kovalev got the good guys on the board and it was all Sens from there.<br /><br />Leclaire was solid when called upon stopping 16 of the 17 shots he faced. The Bolts also had one disallowed by the much maligned "kicking motion" rule. Guess who the Ottawa defenceman was who was burned on both plays? Rookie Erik Karlsson. I like the guy's skills, I really do but he really looks lost out there. He needs seasoning in the minors to learn the North American game. He really does. I feel bad for the kid. He was cock of the walk when he arrived in town and now is constantly hanging his head. His minutes are decreasing and he needs to be "the guy" somewhere. I remember saying when he was drafted that he was 2-3 years away and I stick by that. He'll be a good one, but just not now.<br /><br />Speaking of rookies, Matt Carkner continues to impress. He played a solid game and logged some big minutes. Coach Cory really seems to be spreading the minutes around, however. Top ice getter was Alex Picard at 24:24, but after that, all the other defencemen seem to be around 20:00 with the exception of Karlsson at 16:00 or so. On the forward side, Michalek led the way with 18:00, while everyone else was logging 14:00-16:00 with the exceptions of Donovan, Neil and Foligno who were closer to the 10:00-11:00 range mostly due to the fact that they do not kill penalties. Pretty balances attack, I must say.<br /><br />Highlight of the game? Carkner absolutely pounding Steve "the rat" Downie. Nice to see. In other pugilistic news, Neil got the better of Wilson while Phillips took a rare major penalty in fighting Konopka. While lagging behind in both size and experience, hats off to Chris for holding is won against Tampa's "Big Z"<br /><br />Another highlight? A-Train Volchenkov continuing his stellar play and absolute demolition of NHL rookies by hammering Victor "Sylvie Bernier" Hedman into the boards. Welcome to the NHL, Sylvie. Keep your head up, ya big wuss.<br /><br />Is it too early to say that Michalek is the best Sen ever to don the number 9?<br />I'd like to point out as well, Jason "Giggles" Spezza is really starting to pick up his physical game. I had to double check the number on the back of the jersey when he flattened the Tampa defenceman on the forecheck. Keep it up, Giggles. Your "personal stats" may suffer, but your team will be better for it. His play in all 3 zones is the best of his career. He is becoming a "complete" player and is starting to look more and more like someone named Stevie Y every day.<br /><br />Next up... who cares... I'm going to bask in this one for a couple days.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-38540093466418460492009-10-13T20:39:00.003-04:002009-10-13T20:48:46.129-04:00Sens iced by Penguins 4-1Well, all good things must come to an end and for the Sens, their modest 3 game winning streak crashed to a halt last night at home against the defending Cup Champs.<br /><br />The 4-1 score wasn't indicative of the effort level however as the Sens buzzed all night and hit numerous posts in the process.<br /><br />Like I said in the preseason, a Michalek-Spezza-Cheechoo line could be super and I was proven correct last night. That line was by far Ottawa's best and accounted for the team's lone goal and a beauty at that by Milan Michalek.<br /><br />Alexei Kovalev seemed to take one of his patented nights off and hopefully having him surrounded by probably the best team players as line mates in Mike Fisher and Captain Alfie they'll drive him to be more consistent.<br /><br />A totally deflating goal to make it 3-1 Pens when Leclaire had his first brain fart as a Sen was the difference here in the game. <br /><br />Matt Carkner continues to impress with his simple yet effective play while Chris Campoli and Erik Karlsson continue to scare the crap out of me when they have the puck in their own end. At least the latter has an excuse in being a rookie and is probably best served to learn the North American game in Binghamton enabling a call up for a legit NHL'er in Brain Lee.<br /><br />Next up.... Tampa Bay on Thursday. Look for the boys to bounce back.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-44351491865971719262009-10-10T21:47:00.003-04:002009-10-10T22:43:01.561-04:00Ottawa Thrashes Atlanta 4-2We have a winning streak, folks.<br /><br />The Sens handily beat the Atlanta Thrashers 4-2 in Ottawa tonight in a non-televised (Thank you, CBC) game.<br /><br />Was it just me or did it seem like every Senator was taking a run at former team mate, Christof Schubert? <br /><br />A little line shuffling from Coach Cory and the Sens seem to have found a balanced attack. This had been the achilles heel of the club over the past couple of seasons, but now they look like the can roll 4 dangerous lines. Kovalev, Fisher, Neil and Ruutu scored for the Sens tonight. The newly formed line of Kovalev - Fisher - Alfredsson seems to be clicking quite nicely while the Cheechoo-Regin-Neil line continues their strong play. Even the "fourth" line is kicking in lately with timely scoring.<br /><br />Brian Elliot was solid tonight providing a nice alternative to the hot-handed Pascale LeClaire. The Sens seem to have good goaltending for the first time in years as well.<br /><br />This team could surprise a lot of pundits this season if they can shore up their defense. If BM the GM can do that, this team could do damage in the playoffs.<br /><br />Enjoy it, Sens fans. The defending Cup Champs are up next on Monday.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-8413653545557938072009-10-08T21:38:00.002-04:002009-10-08T21:43:52.864-04:00Sens beach Isles 3-2 (OT)Fisher the OT hero scoring shortly after the extra frame got underway.<br />Ottawa's best line of the night? Cheechoo - Regin - Neil<br />Ottawa's best defenceman of the night? Matt Carkner<br /><br />Regin and Carkner put the Sens up 2-0 before the game, young Isles got on the board late in the 2nd. Isles then tied it up 5 minutes into the 3rd.<br /><br />LeClaire was again, stellar in goal for the Sens.<br /><br />Powerplay is a serious concern for the Sens and they have to work on that, but this team is coming together.<br /><br />Next up.... Schubie and the Thrashers before their big test in the defending champ, Pens.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-41439214591753174652009-10-06T21:36:00.003-04:002009-10-06T21:52:30.082-04:00Sens Rake Leafs 2-1Well, I can tell you one thing for sure. Pascal LeClaire is the best goalie the Sens have ever had. How do I know this? How can I make such a bold statement? Because Pierre McGuire of TSN told me so 8,539 times during this game. <br /><br />The game itself was on the dull side. Very little in the way of odd man rushes, very little in the way of tough, physical play, very few quality scoring chances on both sides of the ice but it was a perfectly played road game by the Sens.<br /><br />Coach Cory had the boys slow the tempo of the game down to a crawl and never let the game develop any kind of flow. They controlled the neutral zone and allowed very little in the way of offense to develop for the Leafs.<br /><br />Good on Shean Donovan scoring for the Sens. I've said many times in many venues that he is a superb 4th line energy guy for the cap hit he brings. Alfie tallied the other Sens marker on a penalty shot. Was it legitimately awarded? Maybe, but who cares. Leaf fans wil cray about until the next "Battle of Ontario".<br /><br />In all seriousness, LeClaire was the main reason for the Sens victory, completely shutting the down when the Leafs finally woke up in the latter half of the third period.<br /><br />The Sens' offense still looked rusty and out of sync. Kovalev seems to do all kinds of great work with the puck only to see nothing develop out of it. He needs some linemates who are used to playing or can adapt to playing with such a creative and unpredictable player.<br /><br />With the exception of the Philchenkov pairing and Carkner, the defense plays a pretty small game. Rookie Erik Karlsson was much improved over his shaky opening game but still has way to go. I wish one of his monster shots would actually make it to the opponents' net instead of just hitting opposing defensemen.<br /><br />All in all, this was a rather tame installment in the "Battle of Ontario". If this keeps up, I'll be forced to rename it to something clever that reflect just how much of a non event this is becoming. Not even one fight.... geeeeeeez.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-57750862642945136232009-10-06T17:01:00.003-04:002009-10-06T17:07:54.862-04:00Sens and Leafs!!!Let's get ready to rumble!!! <br /><br />Finally, the battle of Ontario resumes. Will the newly toughened up Leafs bully the Sens? Will "The Monster" out-duel "Snoopy"? Will the Sens offense start to gel and play up to capabilities? Will Karlsson settle in or will he get run over by the hard charging Leafs? Will Carkner pound new Leaf tough guy Rosehill? We shall all find out tonight.<br /><br />The stream is available here?<br /><br /><a href="http://sports.offmytv.com">http://sports.offmytv.com</a>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-23912641705222558452009-10-03T22:43:00.003-04:002009-10-03T23:04:10.159-04:00Sens Dumped by Rangers 5-2Well, opening night did not go as well as planned for the Ottawa Senators. They turned in a lackluster effort and looked to lack chemistry while shaking off some rust tonight.<br /><br />Pascal Leclaire was awesome in the first period keeping the game somewhat close, but he didn't have much help in front of him. <br /><br />As for the rookies, Carkner was good and solid, Regin appears to be continuing his preseason success and Erik Karlsson was awkward an best.<br /><br />Karlsson reminded me of Brendan Bell the way he made be gasp with panic everytime the puck came to him in the defensive end. He was out muscled all night and just plain beaten on several play. He needs some seasoning and Bingo would probably do him some good. Barring a huge turnaround in his play, expect him to be sent down before game #10.<br /><br />The team looked rusty and needs to gel. No one seems to know how to play with Kovalev. He seems to be passing to no one all night. His linemates never seem to know what he's going to do and therefore, don't know where to position themselves.<br /><br />Michalek showed some skill, but needs to gel with Spezza. He seemed a little confused out there as to where Spezz was at or coming from.<br /><br />Coach Cory will certainly be working on his lines over the next few games to try and find the right mix. Cheechoo was OK and made some good defensive plays but seems to be unsuited to his role a little. Maybe Coach Cory will give him a shot with Spezza and Alfie. <br /><br />This team will be fine once they figure out who's who and what's where. Don't panic Sens fans. We seem to have a good goalie and that's a start, eh?Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-20213413781030918102009-10-03T16:01:00.001-04:002009-10-03T16:03:44.230-04:00Sens Vs. RangersTonight, our beloved Sens take on the New York Rangers. The wait is over! I'll post a review after the game.<br /><br />Here is a stream to the game:<br /><br /><a href="http://sports.offmytv.com">http://sports.offmytv.com</a>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-3850002869431331492009-09-30T20:39:00.003-04:002009-09-30T20:49:04.877-04:00Zubov Asks For a TradeAs if further proof is required that for the most part, drafting Russian players is a complete waste of a pick, Ilya Zubov has apparently <a href="http://www.pressconnects.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=PluckPersona&U=35113aac4c7a458894ac4bec54d9f136&plckController=PersonaBlog&plckScript=personaScript&plckElementId=personaDest&plckPersonaPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a35113aac4c7a458894ac4bec54d9f136Post%3a930664d3-4388-478d-8b89-e73f160bda61&plckCommentSortOrder=TimeStampAscending&sid=sitelife.pressconnects.com">asked for a trade.</a> How many Russian picks do the Sens have sitting over in Russia or out of the organization due to trade demands when their under conditioned, indiffernt and unmotivated asses were demoted to the AHL?<br /><br />Off the top of my head:<br /><br />Mirnov, Nikulin, Kaigorodov, Lyamin, Anikeyenko, Bashkirov.<br /><br />All I can say is, "Thank God old man Muckler is no longer in charge of our draft".<br /><br />What bothers me the most is that, for the most part, these picks show up in camp out of shape, lack effort on a consistent basis, need their brother on the team or can't seen to find their way to the airport out of Moscow. Then, when they're told to work harder, get in better shape, play more of a team game, play some defense, play more physically and then you might make the team, the bolt home or cry for a trade.<br /><br />Hey, now that I think about it.... is Heatley part Russian?Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-39655337368798239112009-09-29T19:19:00.002-04:002009-09-29T19:32:57.068-04:00Brian Lee Sent to Binghamton of the AHLJoining the newly waived Christoff Schubert and the apparently sophmorically jinxed Zach Smith in Binghamton is former first rounder defenceman Brian Lee.<br /><br />Lee is more the victim of a numbers game than anything here. His two way contract helped the decision as did his style of game. The Sens suddenly have a plethora of puck moving and soft defensemen in Chris Campoli, Filip Kuba, Erik Karlsson and Alex Picard. His offensive upside is far less than Karlsson and his physical game, although it did pick up in the latter stages of last season, is FAR less than Matt Carkner. Carkner's ability to sing up to forward as well was a clinching point for his sticking with the big club for now.<br /><br />In my opinion, Lee is running out of time with the Sens and HAS to have an impressive stint in Bingo to earn a shot up here. Failing that, the Sens need to move a defenseman which is unlikely at this point. The prime candidate to move is Picard and for better or worse, he plays the same game as Lee. Picard also possesses a wicked point shot which helps his cause. If Picard continues to develop and isn't moved, Lee is stuck in Bingo. The Sens badly need some meanness back there and Carkner addresses than need, however his offensive upside is very limited. Bryan Murray would like a Pronger-lite type who can move the puck, help out on offense as well as punish opposing forecheckers and drop the gloves when called out. If Lee can the latter part to his resume, he'll be fine. <br /><br />Watch for Chris Neil to have a big season. He finally has some help in the knuckles department as he did when he was his most productive offensively. I've heard him say himself, it's hard to show how good your hands are when they're swollen and bruised all season. I'll try and get in interview with him and talk about this among other topics.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-67810730022560489122009-09-28T20:25:00.002-04:002009-09-28T20:35:33.903-04:00Schubert and Smith Sent to BinghamtonThe changing of the swingman guard appears to be in full swing here in Sensland. Christoff Schubert has been waived and sent to the AHL affiliate in Binghamton to make room for his heir apparent, Matt Carkner. IF the Sens want a player who can be a 7th defenseman or a 13th forward at a moment's notice, Matt brings more to the table than Schubert. Carkner is nothing spectacular, but makes few mistakes out there and can go toe to toe with anyone in the NHL. He brings a meanness to the backend not seen since the days of ** gulp ** Chara. Good luck to the local boy turned 28 year old rookie.<br /><br />In other news, Coach Cory seems to think that there will be a move made in the next 24-48 hours to finalize the roster at 23 to start the season.<br /><br />We'll keep our eyes out for any updates and are speculating nothing but picks/prospects coming back to Ottawa in any deal. Look for Brian Lee to be sent to Binghamton as well due largely to his 2 way contract. Don't worry, Lee fans, he'll be back once the Sens clear some roster room. The Murrays seems stuck on keeping rookies Erik Karlsson and Peter Regin with the big club at least to start the season.<br /><br />By the way, we have found a new site <a href="http://sports.offmytv.com">sports.offmytv.com</a> that promises to post links to NHL streams on game day. We spoke to the webmaster and he assures us that the Sens games are a priority for him.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-30883931216156973652009-09-26T09:05:00.002-04:002009-09-26T09:07:31.143-04:00Sens Lose 2-1 to BruinsGood effort, stoned by Bruins' goalie Tim Thomas. Enough said there. Preseason over and let the games begin in earnest next week.<br /><br />If anyone wonders why Chris Neil makes $2 million a season, here's why:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/oRAs6H2hMHM&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/oRAs6H2hMHM&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-31410806672776601072009-09-22T21:57:00.002-04:002009-09-22T22:06:07.382-04:00Who Stays, Who Goes?Senators GM, Bryan Murray has said that he will wait until after Friday's final preseason game to make his final cuts to the team. By my count, there are 16 forwards and 8 defensemen still in camp. Making a strong case to make the team is forward Peter Regin. Regin has been on fire, finding chemistry with the chemistratically challenged Mike Fisher and Nick Foligno. Fisher has yet to find a linemate with whom he can gel on a consistent basis. Having seeming found one in Regin makes sending him down to the farm a really tough call. To make room, look for Chris Kelly to be dealt or waived.<br /><br />Speaking of tough, Matt Carkner has made a case for himself as well. Murray wants to get tougher on the back end, and Carkner fits that bill to a tee while not being a detriment to the team and able to play a regular shift. Watch for Schubert to be waived or traded to make room for the new swingman who can play forward or defense. When was the last time the Sens had someone this tough on defense who could also play the game. Sherrif Shane Hnidy perhaps? Todd Simpson for a brief period? Ok.... Chara too, be he is in a league of his own and don't get me started on why he's no longer in the nation's capital. Damn you, Muckler!! Damn you and the sweaters you rode in on you senile old fool!!! But I digress. Here's Carks in action:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VOpes6veF8g&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VOpes6veF8g&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-38057739640941316922009-09-22T06:36:00.001-04:002009-09-22T21:42:01.270-04:00Sens Down Bolts 3-1Recap of Sens Scorers:<br /><br />Fisher from Regin<br />Kovalev from Spezza<br />Spezza from Fisher and Karlsson<br /><br />Notes:<br /><br />Shots 29-12 Ottawa<br />Neil pounds Downie<br /><br />Some highlights:<br /><br /><object id="flashObj" width="486" height="412" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/2281222001?isVid=1&publisherID=1704050871" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=41367261001&playerID=2281222001&domain=embed&" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9/2281222001?isVid=1&publisherID=1704050871" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=41367261001&playerID=2281222001&domain=embed&" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="486" height="412" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" swLiveConnect="true" allowScriptAccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object>Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-1671782786796212152009-09-19T22:43:00.000-04:002009-09-19T22:44:14.286-04:00Senators Trim Roster. Bass Sent DownThe Ottawa Senators reduced their training camp roster by eight players today.<br /><br />Six players were assigned to attend the training camp of the club’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Binghamton Senators, which opened on Sept. 16 at Binghamton’s Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena. Two other players will return to their major junior teams<br /><br />The group headed to Binghamton includes defenceman Geoff Kinrade; forwards Cody Bass, Ryan Keller, Jeremy Yablonski and Ilya Zubov, and goaltender Andy Chiodo. Returning to their Ontario Hockey League teams are goaltender Robin Lehner, to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, and forward Brett Parnham, who will report to the Oshawa Generals.<br /><br />The Senators camp roster is now comprised of 32 players: three goaltenders, 10 defencemen and 19 forwards.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-11236267665470502122009-09-19T21:30:00.004-04:002009-09-19T22:06:04.772-04:00Sens Blast Habs 6-1Scoring for the Senators were Kovalev, Fisher(3), Regin, Hennessey<br /><br />Foligno-Regin-Fisher as a line had 12 of our the Sens' 23 shots and combined for 4 goals/11 pts. They were by far the best line on the ice all night. Mike Fisher with the hat trick led the way and looks poised for a great season. Regin is making a strong case to stay with the big team this season as is Matt Carkner. Matt is adding some much needed toughness on the back end while not being a liability defensively. He should replace Chis Schubert as the team's swing man. Plays a similar game minus the dumb plays and adding the willingness to drop them.<br /><br />Leclaire was sharp tonight. While not overly busy, he made some spectacular saves. He looks poised to give the team the best goaltending they have had since The Dominator, Domenic Hasek.<br /><br />2008 first round pick, Erik Karlsson is improving with every game. Tonight was by far his best game as a Senator. He too is making a strong case to stick with the big club. Slick skater, excellent passer and has a wicket shot from the point. He is adjusting nicely to the North American game.<br /><br />After tonight's effort, it looks like the team is starting to find a little chemistry and coach Clouston is settling on his lines as he gets to know his players' strengths and weaknesses.<br /><br />I'll blog a season prediction once the lineup is finalized next week.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6302910650364744820.post-12940227208723134932009-09-17T20:49:00.002-04:002009-09-17T20:56:58.279-04:00Cowen to Play TomorrowAccording to The Team 1200 Sports Radio, 2009 first rounder, Jared Cowen will dress for the Sens upcoming preseason game against the much maligned Montreal Canadiens.<br />Don't get too excited, Sens fans, the hulking manchild won't make the big team this season. The team just wants him to gain some experience and confidence before heading back to his junior team in Spokane. It will be interesting to see the highly touted prospect in action and how he's recovered from last season's devastating knee injury that caused the talented blueliner to fall into the Sens' lap at 9th overall. Originally predicted to go top 3, a late season injury sent his stock downward. Be patient, Mr. Murray, the 6 foot 4 inch rearguard will be worth waiting for and could be the gem of his graduating class in 2 years.Ottawa Senators Rumourshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10783034154479598937noreply@blogger.com0