The Ottawa Senators secured their fifth consecutive victory with a commanding 5-2 win over the Nashville Predators on February 3, 2025, at Bridgestone Arena. This win allowed the Senators to solidify their momentum as they push through the season with their eyes on playoff contention.
The game kicked off with both teams eager to assert themselves. The Predators struck first as Filip Forsberg managed to slip one past Senators goaltender Anton Forsberg just under four minutes from the puck drop. This early goal seemed to set the tone for Nashville, who were desperate for points as they sought to correct their season. Yet, the Senators quickly turned the tide, responding with two goals of their own before the first intermission.
Adam Gaudette, who has been enjoying his best season to date, netted the equalizer with his sixteenth goal. This was quickly followed by another from Jake Sanderson, propelling the Senators to a 2-1 lead by the end of the first period. The Senators carried this momentum through to the second period, but both teams struggled to find the back of the net, leaving the game at 2-1 as they headed to the final twenty minutes of play.
It was the third period when the game truly heated up. Jonathan Marchessault knotted the score at two apiece early on with his sixteenth goal, giving Nashville hope for recovery. Yet, the Senators weren’t fazed; they surged back with ferocity, scoring three unanswered goals. Shane Pinto, David Perron, and Ridly Greig each contributed to the scoreline, with Perron’s effort being particularly notable as it marked his first goal since joining the Senators earlier this season.
Perron, who had faced personal and physical challenges throughout the season, exemplified resilience as he celebrated alongside his teammates. Following the game, he shared, “We’ve got something to prove, and we’re on the right track,” highlighting the united front the Senators have displayed during their recent hot streak.
May the energy continue to ignite during the stretch run, as emphasized by Gaudette, who pointed out, “This was a solid team win and we’re building momentum.” The trio of goals not only solidified the Senators’ lead but showcased their depth and adaptability, with contributions from across the lineup.
On the defensive side, Anton Forsberg helped secure the victory, making 25 saves and thwarting many formidable attempts from the Predators. On the other hand, Nashville's Juuse Saros, who had been expected to be the standout performer, struggled with 34 saves on 39 shots and faced criticism for some soft goals allowed during pivotal moments.
The Senators’ captain, Brady Tkachuk, also played a key role, picking up two assists, contributing to the teamwork ethos instilled within the squad. His physical play and leadership were evident as he battled through the Predators’ defensive lines to help his team keep the offensive pressure on.
For the Predators, the night was less about the bright spots and more about reflecting on missed opportunities. Key players such as Ryan O’Reilly and Steven Stamkos failed to make the impact expected from their experiences. O’Reilly acknowledged the struggles, stating, “It’s tough when the goals aren’t coming, but we need to keep pushing.” This sentiment by O’Reilly encompassed the frustration felt within the locker room as they regroup for their upcoming match against the Chicago Blackhawks.
With the Senators riding the wave of two-dimensional scoring and solid goaltending, they appear poised for the final stretch of the season. A contrasting narrative for the Predators—finding consistent offensive production will be their challenge if they hope to salvage the season. The Senators look to continue this winning trend, resting happily on their accomplishments as they prepare for their next contest.