The Ottawa Senators will host the Minnesota Wild on Saturday night as they look to extend their winning streak to four games, following their thrilling 5-4 overtime victory against the Washington Capitals. With this game, the Senators aim to conclude their season series against the Wild, with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m. ET at the Canadian Tire Centre.
After finishing January with impressive numbers—an 8-5-2 record—the Senators bring their 27-20-4 overall standing to the ice. The previous meeting between the two teams came on December 29, when the Senators secured a solid 3-1 win over the Wild. That match showcased their resilience, as they rallied back from an early deficit, netting three unanswered goals to seal their victory.
Thomas Chabot, who scored the decisive overtime goal against the Capitals, is once again highlighted for his contributions to the team’s recent performance. Along with Chabot, Josh Norris played a significant role, notching three points, including a short-handed goal, and Shane Pinto also contributed positively with another goal. The Senators will look to maintain their home advantage, sporting a commendable 10-2-1 record at the Canadian Tire Centre since late November.
Conversely, the Minnesota Wild enters this game with outstanding confidence, having won three consecutive games, including their recent commanding 4-0 shutout against the Montreal Canadiens. With this win, they boast a formidable 31-17-4 record. Despite the absence of star player Kirill Kaprizov, who is sidelined with a lower-body injury, the Wild's offense is no less threatening. Other key players such as Marco Rossi and Matt Boldy have taken on bigger roles, demonstrating their depth by scoring goals consistently.
Wild head coach John Hynes expressed his team's connected playing style, attributing their recent success to solid work ethic and attention to detail. “Every game is big, and in this league, you can't take a night off, ever,” said Frederick Gaudreau, emphasizing the need for consistency and focus as they approach this weekend's matchup.
While the Senators focus on extending their streak, the Wild are on the hunt for their fifth consecutive road victory, having amassed the best away record in the NHL at 20-5-3. It’s remarkable how the Wild have outscored their last four opponents 14-4 on their current road trip, showcasing their efficiency at both ends of the ice.
Records aside, the Senators will not back down easy at home, especially as they aim for their fifth straight victory. “I think we’ve shown we can battle against any team in this league,” Chabot noted, anticipating the challenge posed by the Wild. The Senators' recent chemistry on the ice, highlighted by improved defensive performances and offensive productivity, will be key factors as they strive for another win.
Both teams will be keeping their starting lineups consistent based on their recent games. For the Wild, Marc-Andre Fleury is anticipated to continue, displaying impressive form after earning his 76th career shutout. Meanwhile, the Senators will most likely start Anton Forsberg, who has had solid performances leading up to this game.
The game promises to be highly competitive as the Senators aim to sweep their homestand and gain momentum as the season progresses. Fans interested can catch the action on Sportsnet, TVAS, or listen live on TSN 1200.