Full Breakdown
Senators' Goaltending Struggles Highlighted in Loss to Red Wings
1/6/2026, 9:33:11 PM
Game Overview and Key Events
On January 5, 2026, the Ottawa Senators faced off against the Detroit Red Wings at the Canadian Tire Centre, ultimately losing 5-3. Despite outshooting the Red Wings 38-20 and winning nearly 60% of faceoffs, the Senators fell short due to early defensive lapses and ongoing goaltending issues. The Red Wings scored three goals in the first period, with Andrew Copp, Dylan Larkin, and James van Riemsdyk finding the net. Ottawa's Leevi Merilainen was pulled after allowing three goals on eight shots, leading to Hunter Shepard's NHL debut, where he stopped 10 of 12 shots.
The Senators fought back in the second period, with goals from Claude Giroux and Dylan Cozens narrowing the deficit to 4-3. However, a shorthanded goal by Michael Rasmussen sealed the game for Detroit, despite Ottawa's attempts to equalize, including a disallowed goal for goaltender interference.
Goaltending Challenges
The Senators' goaltending has been a persistent issue this season, with the team currently holding the worst save percentage in the NHL at .876. Linus Ullmark, the usual starter, is on a personal leave of absence and has struggled with an .881 save percentage in 28 games. Merilainen's performance has been inconsistent, and the team has now called up Mads Sogaard from the AHL to provide additional support. General Manager Steve Staios expressed confidence in the current goaltending roster but acknowledged the need for improvement.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Travis Green emphasized the team's strong performance despite the loss, stating, “We play that game 10 times, we’d win eight or nine times... we played a really good hockey game.” Veteran player Claude Giroux echoed this sentiment, noting the frustration of playing well yet not securing the win. Detroit's head coach Todd McLellan admitted, “I thought they played a real good game, but [we] found a way to win,” highlighting the Senators' competitive effort.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Senators' strong offensive showing, critics have pointed to the recurring goaltending issues as a significant barrier to success. The inability to maintain consistent play in net has led to frustration among players and management alike. Staios acknowledged the scrutiny on the goaltending position, stating, “You can talk to any team in the league and it’s under the microscope.”
What's Next
Following this loss, the Senators (20-16-5) are set to face the Utah Mammoth on January 7, 2026, while the Red Wings (25-15-4) will host the Vancouver Canucks on January 8, 2026. The Senators will need to address their goaltending challenges if they hope to remain competitive in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race.
