Ottawa came out flying on Friday night at Little Caesars Arena. The first five minutes the Senators were simply buzzing past Detroit and into the offensive zone. Jonathan Bernier kept his team in it until Detroit could get on the board. With just over 5 minutes remaining in the first, Tyler Bertuzzi tipped a point shot from Filip Hronek past Hogberg, a rookie goaltender who made some impressive plays of his own (particularly in overtime). Colin White found himself in the crease blocking shots and Hogberg made a sprawling save landing on the defensive forward and saving a goal. It was marvelous chaos to behold.
For what it’s worth, I loved this game. Ottawa started strong, Detroit came back and scored twice. Ottawa returned the favor in a wild 2nd period and the third period was a lot of tight checking and transition. Incredibly entertaining all around.
For Detroit, Tyler Bertuzzi had a goal and an assist, Larkin had a goal and the lone shooout tally, Hronek had 2 assists and Fabbri had a helper. Zadina had some good looks but was unable to break through. The highlight, personally, was Larkin’s end to end goal. It was a good reminder of how much the young forward is capable of with a little bit of support. Cutting into the O-zone Larkin cut sharply to the net, used his skate to fend off a stick and made an in tight play that would make many people claustrophobic. His shootout tally was a beauty as well. Dylan Larkin has shouldered so much this year that he has sacrificed offense to be a better leader and teammate. The character and skill are so evident in #71 that most of us expect the “A… to become a “C….
Bertuzzi did what Bertuzzi does. Gives everything he has every night. Hronek’s pass to Larkin and deflected shot were both well executed. Fabbri continues to contribute, and looks very much at home with Larkin and Bertuzzi. A lot of quick, one touch plays in front of the net make it appear that these three have played together for more than 37 games. When Mantha does come back, there are some exciting options available and the beginnings of some offensive depth. It feels like we’re seeing the top 6 come together slowly but surely.
Colin White was exceptional for Ottawa, with a goal and an assist and some goal saving defensive play. The Senators are building on speed. Tkachuk is consistently at the offensive blue line ready to receive a pass and break in. Duclair and Pageau build up a lot of speed as well, and they execute some really nice forechecking by getting in deep and using the points. Ottawa played the zone defense well in front of their young goalie tonight, and Ron Hainsey is still a defensive stalwart for young players to lean on. In all fairness, Ottawa has so many pieces coming together that they could well finish strong this season.
Duclair was, mercifully, kept off the scoring sheet. He created chances but was unable to cash in to continue his dominance over Detroit. This was a close contest with two teams that are growing and developing. It may be a glimpse into a future rivalry as both clubs continue to rebuild.
Bernier has been very solid for Detroit lately. He’s endeared himself to the players and just seems to have found his groove again. It will be interesting to see if any teams looking for a good backup make an offer to Yzerman. we’re closing in on the final month of the trade deadline and anything is possible.
Detroit’s next opponent is Buffalo. I’ve long suspected the Sabres as a trade partner, and we’ll see if they leave Detroit with more than they came with. Buffalo is always looking for scoring and may have some picks or defensemen they are willing to part with. Only time will tell. We’ll do a closer examination of the numbers in a pregame post this weekend. For now, enjoy the win. They have been few and far between and feel great when they come.
Thanks to everyone who stops by to read and comment. Keep it coming!