Ottawa Senators Roster Adjustments Ahead of Game
In preparation for their upcoming game against the Colorado Avalanche, the Ottawa Senators have made some adjustments to their roster. Forward Xavier Bourgault has been elevated from the AHL affiliate, Belleville, while goalie Mads Sogaard has been sent back down after his impressive recent performance. Sogaard earned the title of first star in a surprising win over the Vegas Golden Knights, where he showcased his skills before swiftly returning to the minors not long after.
Injury Updates and Trade Deadline Discussions
This latest move in the Senators’ lineup comes as discussions among pundits, including Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy, center around David Perron’s injury and the impending March 6th trade deadline. The fluctuating dynamics of NHL rosters can be quite unpredictable.
With Sogaard’s departure, veteran goalie James Reimer, who had been a healthy scratch during the last game, is set to return to play. Reimer recently faced a rigorous schedule of four games within seven days, which led to the team’s decision to rest him during the back-to-back match against the Golden Knights. Alternative backup Linus Ullmark was also available for that game but was not utilized then; following a month-long absence focused on mental health, he may have the chance to suit up against the Avalanche if needed.
Player Performance and Recovery
The decision to promote Bourgault is also largely dependent on the condition of Stephen Halliday, who suffered a head injury during the match against Vegas. Halliday, however, showed signs of recovery by attending Tuesday’s practice in a non-playing capacity, cheering on his teammates from the sidelines.
Bourgault, enjoying a standout second season in Belleville with 37 points over 43 games, has outperformed his previous record, marking a notable improvement from last year. He recently made his NHL debut with the Senators earlier in the season. Meanwhile, fellow player Arthur Kaliyev has been a standout in Belleville as an all-star selection, boasting 46 points, and is likely eager for another opportunity to showcase his talent in the NHL.
Looking Ahead
The Senators are looking to bounce back following a dominant 7-1 victory against the Golden Knights, contrasting with their earlier 8-2 defeat to the Avalanche this month. As they prepare for this challenging matchup, the team’s strategies and player conditions will be vital in determining their success.
