Penguins Gameday #24 (Senators)

Penguins (13-8-2, 28 pts) (2nd Atlantic, 5th East)

Senators (10-11-1, 21 pts) (3rd Northeast, 9th East)

Where: Consol Energy Center

When: 1:00 ET

TV: FSNPIT

The Pens return home after a sucessful 4 point 2 game road trip to face the Sens. Ottawa has been dealing with some serious offensive struggles of recent, as they have scored only 12 goals in their last 7. The Pens havn't been exactly lighting the lamp a whole lot themselves, but Fleury and the defense have lead the way right back up near the top of the standings. Oh, and Sid also has a 10 game point streak going. Don't forget, it's at 1:00 so get your shopping done early.

Opponents to Watch:

Daniel Alfredsson- One of the few bright spots of Ottawa's offense this season, Alfie leads his team with 8 goals and 10 assists.

Sergei Gonchar- Pens fans are all too familiar with his slapshot and powerplay capabilities, but also his vulnerability on defense. Gonchar is a -12 this season and is tied for the 2nd worst +/- in the league.

Alex Kovalev- Still has some of that scoring touch, and already has 6 goals this season. He also brings the veteran leadership/experience to the table, as if Ottawa needed any more of that.

Keys to Victory:

-As mentioned above, Gonchar is a -12. This is no accident. Exploit him as frequently as possible.

-Watch out for Ottawa's goons. Neil and Ruutu jump at any opportunity possible to start trouble and then usually sneak away, so why not beat them to the punch. If the Pens finish their checks and send a message early, maybe it will settle down the game a bit so Crosby and the offense can go to work.

-Sens give up 3.14 goals per game, and they are near the bottom with their PK%. Maybe this will be one of the better games for the Pens' PP.

Notes:

-I wouldn't be surprised to see Johnson either today or tomorrow, unless he is still ill.

-Not sure who the Sens are starting in goal, but my guess is Leclaire.

-Both teams healthy with the exception of Staal for the Pens.