Full Breakdown
Senators Stumble 6-2 in Back-to-Back Loss to Sharks
By Drooid · · How we work
Game Recap
Ottawa fell 6-2 to the San Jose Sharks on the second night of a back-to-back. The Senators, coming off an emotional win over the Florida Panthers, posted a season-high 43 shots but were unable to convert. Defensive lapses allowed a short-handed goal and a second goal moments after a power-play expired, leaving the team 0-3 in the latter half of back-to-back games this season.
Goaltending Situation
Starting goaltender Linus Ullmark was placed on injured reserve after a lower-body strain in the third period of the previous night’s game. The report notes Ullmark entered the week leading the league with seven wins, a .945 save percentage and a 1.33 goals-against average, the second-best GAA in the NHL. In his absence, backup Samuel Ersson took the crease; he has yet to record a win in the three back-to-back starts he has made this season. The Senators also have the option of calling up Jonas Johansson, a 31-year-old acquired from Tampa Bay last month.
Coaching and Player Reactions
Head coach Travis Green expressed frustration with the special-teams performance, stating the power play must improve. Samuel Ersson acknowledged his play was “not near good enough” and emphasized the need for timely saves.
Statistical Overview
- Senators record entering the game: 7-4-0.
- Back-to-back record: 0-3 in the second half of the pairings.
- Shots on goal: 43 (season high).
- Ullmark’s league-leading stats before injury: 7 wins, .945 save %, 1.33 GAA (second overall).
Upcoming Schedule
Ottawa will host the New York Rangers before embarking on a four-game west-coast road trip that includes stops in Las Vegas and all three California teams.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our power play’s got to be better,” — Travis Green, leaving head coach
- “It’s just about finding a way, that’s what it’s all about,” — Samuel Ersson
- “I’ve played hockey for a long time and I know how to do it,” — Samuel Ersson