Like I said yesterday, I am in Philadelphia and didn't see more than a 3 minute highlight package for this one, but from what I did see the Senators had ample opportunity to put the game away before the third period.
Up by one goal, a quick one-timer from Mike Hoffman on a power play, the Senators had chances, most notably one from Mark Stone on a 2-on-1, but couldn't beat former teammate Robin Lehner. They have now only scored 12 goals in their last seven games since notching seven against the Coyotes.
Craig Anderson seemed to play ok in making 30 saves, but the winning goal was a reason why I was concerned about the Senators goaltending heading into the season. It was a terrible goal to allow and one that can't go in as the winning goal. Yes, he shouldn't have been put in that situation, and if he had a little more goal support it might not have mattered. But, it did and in a tie game allowing a goal from below the goal line because you are out of position and lost track of where the puck was cost them.
And while Anderson coming back for Hockey Fights Cancer night is a little heroic, a good story and all, I don't think it makes sense to come and go from the lineup without much notice. Even if he gives you the best chance to win on any given night, the uncertainty surrounding his availability is more of a distraction than anything. If he is taking a leave, take the leave as long as you need, but a game in - game out is counterproductive in my opinion. I guess their philosophy is to take what you can get when you can get it from Anderson, but I am not sure that is the best strategy on the whole.
The Senators have a couple of days to prepare for a pair of road games, first in Nashville and then a return match against the Sabres on back to back nights, Tuesday and Wednesday.