The Ottawa Senators find themselves in a deep 3-0 series hole after a disappointing 2-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Senators' power play, which went 0-for-5 including a crucial 5-on-3 opportunity for 1:28 in the second period, was the primary culprit in the defeat.
Power Play Struggles
The Senators had five power plays in the second period alone, but failed to generate any serious scoring chances. The man advantage has been a problem throughout the series, and Game 3 was no exception. Ottawa's inability to capitalize on opportunities allowed the Hurricanes to maintain their lead and eventually secure the win.
Early Setback
Carolina forward Logan Stankoven scored just five minutes into the first period, silencing the home crowd and putting the Senators on their heels. It was Stankoven's third goal in as many games, continuing his strong playoff performance.
Brief Resurgence
Drake Batherson tied the game late in the second period with a beautiful goal, accepting a pass from Nick Cousins and lifting the puck over Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen. However, the Hurricanes responded just over a minute later, regaining the lead and deflating the arena once again.
Goaltending Wasted
For the third straight game, the Senators received fantastic goaltending but failed to support their netminder with enough offense. The loss leaves Ottawa on the brink of elimination as the series shifts back to Carolina.
Player Grades
Tim Stutzle: D+ - Stutzle held onto pucks well but finished with only one shot. He was constantly looking for the perfect pass and rarely drove to the net. He has zero points in the series.
Brady Tkachuk: D+ - Also pointless in the series, Tkachuk missed a glorious opportunity in the second period and took a questionable interference penalty. His decision-making on the power play was poor.
Drake Batherson: B+ - Batherson scored the Senators' only goal and was one of the few bright spots. He took a weak penalty but drew a hooking call and was physical early.
Dylan Cozens: B - Cozens had a team-high four shots and made one of the few power moves of the night. He had several great chances but couldn't convert.
Ridly Greig: A - Greig was the Senators' best forward, winning board battles and creating chances. He was excellent on the penalty kill and went 4-for-5 in the face-off dot.
The Senators will need to find a way to solve their power play issues if they hope to extend the series. Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday in Carolina.
