The Ottawa Senators face a critical test of character on one of the NHL's grandest stages this Tuesday night. Fresh off a demoralizing 6-1 defeat to the Dallas Stars on Sunday, the team travels to Montreal seeking redemption against their historic rivals, the Canadiens, at the Bell Centre.
A Seasoned Rivalry Awaits at the Bell Centre
This storied matchup might be precisely the medicine the Senators need to cure their recent woes. The club is looking to halt a two-game losing streak that began with a 4-3 loss to the St. Louis Blues last Friday. The recent stumble has pushed Ottawa outside of a playoff position, adding significant weight to this mid-week contest.
The 6-1 loss in Dallas was a particularly bitter pill to swallow, as it marred the conclusion of the best November for the franchise in five years. With a 3-3-0 record on their current seven-game road trip, a victory over Montreal is essential to finish the journey with a winning record.
Physical and Emotional Battles Define the Habs-Sens Dynamic
Games between the Senators and Canadiens are renowned for their high emotion and physical, toe-to-toe combat. This intense atmosphere typically brings out the best in both clubs. The rivalry remains potent despite the teams not meeting in the playoffs since 2015, with bad blood cultivated over many seasons.
Key Senators like captain Brady Tkachuk and star centre Tim Stutzle have fully embraced villain roles in the eyes of the Montreal fanbase. Tkachuk's return from thumb surgery adds a major spark, though he may need to avoid fighting while his ligament heals. Both franchises are viewed as up-and-coming forces in the Atlantic Division, having endured lengthy rebuilds before returning to the playoffs last spring.
Lineup Decisions and the Need for Physical Response
All eyes will be on head coach Travis Green to see how he adjusts the lineup following Sunday's poor performance. Given the history with Montreal, it is widely anticipated that one or both of the team's rugged wingers could draw into the lineup.
Kurtis MacDermid, who has played only eight of the club's 25 games this season, and recent AHL call-up Hayden Hodgson from Belleville are the primary candidates. This game represents the exact scenario for which such players are rostered.
The Senators cannot afford to let physical Canadiens like defenseman Arber Xhekaj or his brother, forward Florian Xhekaj, operate without accountability. Ensuring that the response doesn't fall solely on Tkachuk's recovering hands will be a delicate balance for Green and his staff.
Tuesday night presents a prime opportunity for the Senators to right their ship. The electric environment of the Bell Centre and the deep-seated animosity of the rivalry often translate into hard-fought, passionate hockey. For a team searching for momentum, there may be no better catalyst than a battle with the Montreal Canadiens.
