Senators Player Grades: Ullmark's Costly Errors in Gut-Wrenching Loss to Canadiens
The Ottawa Senators suffered a devastating 3-2 regulation loss to the Montreal Canadiens at Canadian Tire Centre on March 11, 2026, in a critical matchup with playoff implications. The defeat was particularly painful as the Senators were outworked by a Canadiens team playing the second half of a back-to-back, leaving Ottawa with little margin for error in the tight Stanley Cup Playoffs race.
Goaltending Performance
Linus Ullmark: C-
Ullmark's performance proved costly for the Senators, as he posted an .870 save percentage and allowed two particularly soft goals that ultimately decided the game. While he made some quality saves, including a notable glove stop in the first period, the critical errors at key moments proved too much for Ottawa to overcome. His inability to make the big save when needed turned what could have been a competitive game into a gut-punch defeat.
Forward Line Analysis
Tim Stutzle: A-
The 24-year-old German forward demonstrated significant growth in his game, showing none of the perimeter play that characterized his earlier career matchups against Montreal. Stutzle embraced the physical battle, driving hard to the middle of the ice and not backing down from corner confrontations. He contributed two assists and made a crucial block in the slot late in the third period that potentially saved a goal. His only significant blemish came on Montreal's opening goal, where a poor decision to dive at a cross-ice pass left him out of position.
Drake Batherson: A-
Batherson continued his recent offensive surge with his third two-goal game in his past six contests. His net-front presence proved invaluable as he scored twice on plays where he effectively shook off defenders and positioned himself perfectly. The forward demonstrated strong puck protection skills and delivered several effective reverse hits throughout the game.
Claude Giroux: B-
Giroux appeared somewhat out of sync with the game's physicality and pace, struggling at times to match the intensity. Despite this, he managed to generate offensive opportunities, registering five shots on goal and earning a secondary assist on Ottawa's second goal. His contributions during Ottawa's late push showed flashes of his offensive capabilities.
Brady Tkachuk: B
Tkachuk demanded possession in the offensive zone, using his frame effectively to protect the puck and create opportunities for teammates. He set up Dylan Cozens in the slot and later found Tyler Kleven with space at the point. However, his energy appeared to wane as the game progressed, resulting in several one-and-done shifts during the latter stages. He did contribute a primary assist on Batherson's power-play goal.
Dylan Cozens: A-
Cozens delivered an exceptional performance in the offensive zone, fighting for positioning in high-danger areas and winning numerous puck battles. His five shots on goal and persistent pressure helped Ottawa maintain offensive zone time and hem in the Canadiens for extended shifts. His only significant mistake came on a questionable goalie interference penalty that led to Montreal's opening goal.
Ridly Greig: A
Greig's energy and defensive awareness were on full display throughout the contest. One particular penalty-killing shift in the second period encapsulated his impact: within 40 seconds, he broke up a pass with an active stick, won a race in the neutral zone to create a partial breakaway, and then thwarted a Canadiens 2-on-1 with a diving defensive play. His consistent effort from start to finish made him one of Ottawa's most effective players.
Shane Pinto: C-
Pinto struggled defensively in this matchup, getting turned around twice on Montreal's opening power-play goal and losing coverage on Ivan Demidov for what became the game-winning rebound goal. While Stutzle bore more responsibility for the first goal, Pinto's defensive lapses proved costly. He also took a tripping penalty in the second period that disrupted Ottawa's momentum.
Defensive Assessment
Thomas Chabot: B-
Playing on the top defensive pairing, Chabot failed to elevate his game to the level required against a determined Canadiens squad. While he made some solid defensive plays, he couldn't provide the offensive spark or defensive stability needed to counter Montreal's pressure effectively.
Game Impact Analysis
The Senators' loss represents a significant setback in their playoff pursuit, as they failed to capitalize against a fatigued opponent. While several forwards delivered strong performances, the combination of Ullmark's critical errors and defensive breakdowns proved insurmountable. The team showed resilience in their late push, but the early deficits created by preventable goals ultimately sealed their fate in this crucial divisional matchup.
