A contentious opener could lead to a hostile Game 2.
Game 1 of the Senators-Canadiens series -- a 4-3 win for Montreal -- set the tone for what should be a physical, potentially vicious round between these Atlantic Division rivals.
The opening contest was highlighted by P.K. Subban's ejection, which came as a result of his slash on Mark Stone. Although Stone returned to action following the injury, he was later diagnosed with a micro-fracture, and his status for the remainder of the best-of-seven series is unclear.
Ottawa's offense may struggle without Stone, who is in the running for the Calder Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL's top rookie. It doesn't help that Andrew Hammond has been somewhat shaky of late. The 27-year-old has given up three or more goals in three of his last six starts -- not terrible by any means, but not the elite goaltending he displayed en route to a .941 save percentage.
In the other crease, Vezina and Hart Trophy candidate Carey Price will look to improve on a solid Game 1. Although he gave up three goals to the Sens, one was knocked into his net by teammate Andrei Markov. Disregard that play and he stopped 32 of 30.
If Price is his usual self, and if Stone can't suit up, it will be mighty difficult for Ottawa to even the series.
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Place: Bell Centre
TV: CBC, CNBC, TVA
Online: NBCSports.com
Source SBNation.com - All Posts http://ift.tt/1Ddhpp4
No comments:
Post a Comment