Losers

Sens lost their second game this season. I kinda saw a letdown coming, since the Caps are bottom feeders so far this year. The chances were there, but Kolzig was there too. Redden showed little effort and got beat too often. Sens took a few too many penalties (especially Schubert filling-in for Volchenkov). I think Kolzig was better and the Sens gave up too many shots.

 

Emery didn't help his cause, if he plans to overthrow Gerber. Paddock was obviously giving Emery something of a softball with Washington (5-9-1). Emery was better than last game, but that's not saying much. I see Gerber's starting job as safe for the time being.

 

The best news is that Volchenkov is slated to play Saturday. He went out after blocking an Ovenchicken shot, with his inner thigh. I've played goalie enough times to know that non-goaltender pants offer little 5-hole protection. The bottom line is that Volchenkov blocks a TON of shots and one will find a tender spot eventually.

 

I saw an article about whether the Sens were lucky or good. I would say both. There were at least 3 games, mostly back-to-back nights, that the Sens were not at their best and got more than a few good bounces. There is an OT win and SO win thrown into that 13-2 record. Lose those games, and you're looking at 8-7.  That's still top 5 in the East. Lucky + good = dominant.

 

What hasn't been talked about too much is Heatley's scoring drought. I think it's been 4 games or so since his last goal.!? Which goes unnoticed when the team is winning. Also, the lack of Spezza.