I had suggested the Senators go with rookie Mike Brodeur in net tonight – give him the pressure of saving the season.
I never expected it to happen and it won't. Still, the coach is gambling. It will be Pascal Leclaire tonight for Ottawa. As bad as he's been all year – and he's had an awful year – Leclaire now has the job of saving a season.
These are desperate times. Numbers sometimes lie. Not this time. Leclaire has been among the worst in the league in goals against average, and in save percentage.
In his 31 starts this year, the Senators managed just 12 wins. Since the new year, Leclaire has just one win. That's it. And he starts tonight.
Pick your poison…Elliott or Leclaire. Neither choice should inspire great confidence.
It could be a long night for the Ottawa Senators if Leclaire can't find the switch and flick on his game. A long night…and a long off-season. Down 3-1 and facing elimination on the road against the defending Stanley Cup champions…yes…these are desperate times.
- Terry
