The 2024-25 Ottawa Senators do feel different and one reason, other than what we have discussed recently, is their depth-chart at the forward position. For starters, Michael Amadio is a great example of highlighting the key differences. The differences being those between this year’s Sens team, and ones of years’ past, that failed to qualify for spring hockey. So let’s understand just how good the Sens depth is.

Ottawa Senators Forward Depth Chart

If we look back to Tuesday’s night matchup versus the Montreal Canadiens, there was a lot on the line. Even though the Sens and Habs are 4-5 in the NHL’s Atlantic Division standings, the Sens are the better defensive team. And part of the reason, is their depth upfront.

Itsa me, Amadio! When Michael Amadio made it 2-1 with over seven minutes left in the second period to give the Sens the lead against the Habs, it was just going to prove our thoughts of how important he can be for the team.

Amadio does only have 22 points on the year on ten goals and 12 assists. In contrast, when you consider he does so in just over 14 minutes a night and on a 14.9% shooting, he is rather efficient. He puts in responsible minutes and tows the line. At 5v5, he does lead the Sens forward group in shooting talent above average at 11.9%. See, efficiency.

Building a Foundation to Not Repeat Past Mistakes

Amadio does really highlight the strengths of the 2024-25 Ottawa Senators. One of the key differences between this year’s team and previous teams has been the depth. However, not so much the overall on paper appearance of depth, but more so relevant to the actual production. Even from this year, trading away Zack Ostapchuk was a clear example. The depth was not producing, as he only had four points in 43 games played.

A note on Ostapchuk is that he should be a fine NHLer. He skates hard and has good size. Moreover, he has toughness and even soft hands down low. The one drawback with the Sens and at this point of his career was he needs ice time. Whether at the AHL or NHL level, he will really begin to develop once he is played 15 to 17 minutes a game. With the Sens making a concerted push to the postseason this year, that extra time was not warranted.

In the past for the Ottawa Senators, their forward depth chart needed to produce more. Whether it was Mark Kastelic, Egor Sokolov, or Rourke Chartier, these guys had plenty of opportunity, but simply needed more offence. Now, it is not necessarily a requirement for depth forwards to produce offensively. Sometimes all that is needed is to be able to grind out games or bringing physicality. Conversely, now that we see the depth guys producing for Ottawa, we see what a difference maker it truly can be. 

Shane Pinto is a constant reminder for opponents how good the Sens depth can be. After a strong start, Adam Gaudette is still maintaining strong stats with 16 goals and only plays 10:31 a game. Matthew Highmore has proven to be an invaluable piece, and can throw a hit or two when needed. Then, the Sens were able to add Fabian Zetterlund as a supporting-role cast member. Zetterlund has a ton of potential upside still. His career highs from last year goals (24), assists (20), and points (44), are all in jeopardy this season. He’s yet to get going for Ottawa, but hasn’t been playing nearly regular enough for it to be any type of concern for Sen fans. 

The depth is why injuries to players like Nick Cousins or David Perron having missed significant time, have gone largely unnoticed. This year’s Sens team is ready to go, one through 12 on the forward group. Whether that is Amadio or Gaudette or now Zetterlund, the Sens can and will get it done in crunch time.

Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.

NHL Predictions

Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens

Head-to-Head: Devils 1-1 Blue Jackets

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: TSN2; TSN5; ESPN+

We open up NHL predictions with our featured game between the Senators and the Canadiens. Ottawa is expected to start Linus Ullmark in between the pipes. However, always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. The Senators are 7-2-1 in the last 10 games and this includes six straight victories. Brady Tkachuk has registered 27 goals and 24 assists for Ottawa.

Sam Montembeault is the confirmed starter for the Canadiens, who are 7-1-2 in the last 10 games. The Habs are coming off a 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers last time out.  Patrik Laine has overcome injuries to get 16 goals with 11 assists for the Canadiens.

Both teams are playing well, but Ottawa continues its winning run.

Prediction: Senators win 4-2.

Detroit Red Wings vs Washington Capitals

Head-to-Head: Red Wings 1-1 Capitals

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: SN360; Fan Duel Sports Detroit; Monumental Sports Network; ESPN+

The second game of NHL predictions has the Detroit Red Wings visiting the Washington Capitals. Detroit is projected to start Petr Mrazek in between the pipes for this game. The Red Wings are 3-7 in the last 10 games, but did get a victory in their last game out. Alex DeBrincat has collected five goals and added four assists over the past 10 games.

Washington is likely to go with Charlie Lindgren in goal for this game. The Capitals are 6-4 in the last 10 games and are in first place in the Metropolitan Division. Tom Wilson has been averaging over a point a game as of late with three goals and eight assists over the past 10 games for Washington.

This is an important game for different reasons, but the Capitals continue their solid run.

Prediction: Capitals win 5-3.

Winnipeg Jets vs Vancouver Canucks

Head-to-Head: Jets 1-0 Canucks

Time: 10 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: SN Pacific; TSN3; ESPN+

Our last game of NHL predictions has the Winnipeg Jets taking on the Vancouver Canucks. Winnipeg is expected to start Connor Hellebuyck in the crease for this game. The Jets are 6-3-1 in the last 10 games and winners of three straight games prior to this game. Kyle Connor has totaled 36 goals and 49 assists for Winnipeg.

Kevin Lankinen is the projected starter for the Canucks, who are 5-5 in the last 10 games. This also includes a loss in the team’s last outing. Vancouver owns a 27-6-6 record in games they score at least three goals. Elias Pettersson is having a slow season by his standards with 15 goals and 27 assists for the Canucks.

The Jets are playing well, but the Canucks are looking for some mometum.

Prediction: Jets win 4-2.

Prop Bets of the Night

We round out NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Let’s go back to our featured game for our props. For Ottawa, take Drake Batherson to get the over on 0.5 points. On the Montreal end of things, go with Cole Caufield to get a goal on the power play.

Main photo by: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

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Three of the hottest Ottawa Senators are really humming along right now and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. The three players are Drake Batherson, Brady Tkachuk, and Jake Sanderson and they have been playing motivated lately, and for good reason. After all, there’s something fueling the club’s current 7-0-1 stretch. So sit tight while we get to why they’ve been such eager contributors to the team’s success as of late.

The Three Hottest Ottawa Senators as of Late

The first player to jump into on our discussion based on their recent surge, perhaps the unsung hero of the forward group, is Drake Batherson. Moreover, his spark might have come slightly more recently than his two American teammates. We’ll explain in a bit. As we referenced his recent surge, and the catalyst that initiated it was the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline. Specifically, the addition of Dylan Cozens and the subsequent chemistry has been noticeable, very noticeable. We remember hearing of initially Batherson inviting Cozens to his place upon his arrival to the Canadian National Capital.

We’ve noticed Batherson playing with extra confidence offensively and more willing to play the body and doing so more authoritatively, as of late. Besides the fact, Batherson has had an underrated, productive career overall to this point. His career highs are goals (28), assists (40), and points (66). He’s currently on pace for 22 goals, 45 assists, and 67 points. Although, he might very well exceed that pace down the stretch, as he has been heating up with two goals, three assists, and eight hits in the club’s past three games. Meanwhile, since coming over to Ottawa from the Buffalo Sabres at the deadline, Cozens has been hot as well. He has two goals, two assists, and 23 hits in the five games he’s suited up as a member of the Ottawa Senators. So far the connection on and off ice has been evident and Sens hope that not only Batherson’s elevated play but now Cozens, too, continues.

Why 2024-25 Is Different for the Ottawa Senators

Brady and Sandy Elevating their Play and the Team

Next up, are the two from Team USA at the 4 Nations. However, one has experienced the heightened responsibility as he’s an American captain of a Canadian NHL team. No doubt, it must be difficult to be subjected to hearing the boos of your own national anthem. Everyone just needs to keep in mind, it is passionate Canadians trying to stand up for their country, don’t take this stuff personal. 

In any case, it seems since coming back to regular club play, after representing their country, both Tkachuk and Sanderson have been playing with a couple extra bees under their bonnet. And that’s saying something for Brady, who always seems to stir the proverbial pot of honey.

Tkachuk never seems to pass up the opportunity to lay the body. Moreover, it seems that he has heightened confidence around the net, not unlike Drake or Sandy. Even if these three are the hottest, or close to it, Linus Ullmark deserves individual recognition, along with many others. By the way, Ullmark is 6-0-1 in March.

Looking at some stats, we see the evidence of their recent performances. Brady Tkachuk is currently riding a nine-game point streak. Over that span he has an impressive seven tucks, along with three apples. Oh yeah, a few hits registered too, 24 to be exact. Meanwhile, for Sanderson, in the eight games since the break, he has one goal and nine assists. It just seems like he’s on another level. Looking to prove something and for Sen fans, we could care less who he’s looking to prove it to. So buckle up, the next few weeks will be intense, and anything worth doing, is worth doing right and never a smooth ride.

Main Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

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The Ottawa Senators have three distinct reasons why the 2024-25 team is much improved over years past, gone by. They were close in 2022-23 when Alex DeBrincat was on the team. However, this year’s team has been different. Sure, they’ve struggled at times with some losing streaks. But they’ve always been able to stay on top of it, turn it around, and go on a winning stretch. So, let’s dive in and analyze what exactly makes this year’s version different (specifically better).

Comparing the 2024-25 Ottawa Senators with the 2022-23 Edition

Before we hammer down on the current team, a quick note on the 2022-23 team. As a matter of fact, between 2017-18 and 2023-24, it was the only season the team’s point percentage was above .476 (it was .524). Furthermore, for Alex DeBrincat, he never had a big season offensively that year. He had 27 goals and 39 assists for 66 points (good for fourth on the team). However, he was a part of the reason why the Sens were a complete team that year. He was a major factor in Shane Pinto putting up 20 goals as a second-line centre, in what was his rookie campaign.

It also didn’t seem to matter who the Sens had in net that year. Seven goalies started at least one NHL game that year for Ottawa (of the seven, only Leevi Merilainen failed to be credited with a victory). The three goalies who played the most, had respectable records, even if their other stats may have been lacking. Mads Sogaard (8-6-3), Cam Talbot (17-14-2), and Anton Forsberg (11-11-2) were a big reason why they missed the playoffs by only six points. In addition, Tim Stutzle (90), Brady Tkachuk (83), and Claude Giroux (79) had big years constantly powering the squad through on the scoresheet.

The main takeaway from that season was with a little more structure systematically and depth, talent wise, the group was close. That brings us to this year, where combining more health throughout the lineup and now a couple major deadline additions, the Sens have powered their pathway over the old proverbial hump. Therefore, let’s study three major contributing factors to the Sens on-ice success in 2024-25.

First up, the First or Third Line Rather of Defence

One of the reasons the Senators are stronger this year is their six defencemen. They have found a three-pair combination that has been effective and efficient. Nick Jensen coming over from the Washington Capitals for Jakob Chychrun has provided Thomas Chabot with the type of partnership he has longed for. Moreover, this has allowed Artem Zub and Jake Sanderson to settle-in together. Okay Sen fans, don’t say match made in heaven, but the top two are close and the third pairing isn’t far off either.

Tyler Kleven seems to have matured into an NHL defenceman and Nikolas Matinpalo has provided support. They make up a smart and, more important, physical final defensive duo. What more could you ask for on a roster that has lacked toughness. This is especially so when compared against fellow Atlantic Division rival teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning or the Florida Panthers.

The Last Line of Defence, the Starting Goaltender

The next differentiator for the 2024-25 Ottawa Senators versus recent teams is Linus Ullmark. Being the Vezina Trophy winner from only back in 2022-23, he’s a goalie that will steal you games. Now, he has been bit with bouts of below-par play at times this year. In contrast, he has played at an elite-level quite often. 18 times when he has seen 20 or more shots, he had a save percentage of .912 or better. (That includes last night’s victory versus the Toronto Maple Leafs stopping 21 of 23 shots). In those 18 contests, he’s 14-3-1. Additionally, if you focus in on games he had a .923 SV% or better, he’s 12-0-0.

Overall on the season, he is 18-11-3 with three shutouts, a 2.66 GAA, and a .911 SV%. Comparing across the league, his 10.4 GSAx has him 21st in the NHL. However, where that is a cumulative stat, many of the goalies ahead of him have the advantage of having played more. The main example is the leader, Connor Hellebuyck, at 36.4, has 51 games against Ullmark’s 34. In any case, Ullmark is a big reason for the Sens turnaround in 2024-25. When he’s on, the Sens are hard to beat.

Understanding the 2024-25 Ottawa Senators Forward Looking Optimism

The final difference, albeit a subtle one, comes from analyzing this roster’s forward group compared against others from recent years. When their key guys, especially centres, have been healthy, even going back a few years, the Sens have consistently won. Names like Joshua Norris and Shane Pinto missing time in this and other recent lineups, has been unfortunately costly for the outcomes of games.

However, this year’s managerial accountability addressed that issue. They brought in dependable guys, guys that are terrific at pushing the needle in the Sens favour. Michael Amadio and David Perron are great examples of guys that move those chains. Therefore, even if the Sens game-to-game lineup availability isn’t head coach Travis Green’s first choice, they have the foot soldiers to tow the line. Also, their top-end point producers are playing like top performers. We haven’t even mentioned the acquisitions of Dylan Cozens and Fabian Zetterlund further forcing favourable fates for Sen fans.

Based on our analysis, we have identified three crucial on-ice factors powering the Sens this year. As a result, we hinted at the similar off-ice changes paying off in spades as well. That’s not to mention the certain upgrade the trade deadline brought. It will be very interesting what the potential of a higher salary cap in 2025-26 brings this offseason. Maybe we can do a similar analysis a year from now, and Sens fans will be even more optimistic. Only time will tell, so stay tuned and buckle up for the race to spring hockey.

Main Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers – Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Ottawa Senators vs Toronto Maple Leafs. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.

NHL Predictions

Florida Panthers vs Montreal Canadiens

Head-to-Head: Panthers 0-1 Canadiens

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: CityTV; SN East; TVAS; Scripps Florida; NHL Network

We open NHL predictions with an Atlantic Division game between the Florida Panthers and Montreal Canadiens. Sergei Bobrovsky is the projected starter for this game, but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Florida in 8-2 in the last 10 games entering this matchup. Sam Bennett has scored five goals in the last 10, including two against the Maple Leafs on Thursday.

Sam Montembeault is the confirmed starter for Montreal, which is 6-2-2 in the last 10 games. However, the Habs did lose in controversial fashion to the Seattle Kraken in overtime. Juraj Slafkovsky has been averaging over a point of game as of late with six goals and five assists over the past 10 games.

Montreal did a shutout in the first meeting, but that was with Jakub Dobes in net. Florida is playing well despite missing some key pieces.

Prediction: Panthers win 4-2.

New York Rangers vs Columbus Blue Jackets

Head-to-Head: Rangers 2-1 Blue Jackets

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: MSG; Fan Duel Sports Ohio; ESPN+

We have a big matchup for the second game of our NHL predictions as the New York Rangers battle the Columbus Blue Jackets. Igor Shesterkin is the expected starter for New York, which is 5-3-2 in the last 10 games. Artemi Panarin has generated 28 goals and 40 assists for the Rangers.

Columbus is slated to start Daniil Tarasov in this pivotal game. The Blue Jackets are 5-5 in the last 10 games, which includes two consecutive losses. Adam Fantilli netted a hat trick in the last meeting between the two teams.

This is a critical matchup, but Columbus stops the bleeding with a victory.

Prediction: Blue Jackets win 3-2.

Ottawa Senators vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Head-to-Head: Senators 2-0 Maple Leafs

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: CBC; Sportsnet; ESPN+

The last game of NHL predictions is another installment of the Battle of Ontario. Ottawa is probable to start Linus Ullmark in the blue paint. The Senators are winners of five straight and are 6-3-1 in the last games. German sensation Tim Stutzle has tallied 20 goals and 47 assists for Ottawa.

Anthony Stolarz is the expected starter for the Maple Leafs, who are 6-3-1 in the last 10 games. However, Toronto did suffer a 3-2 loss to Florida in its last game. Auston Matthews is starting to get back on track with 23 goals and 33 assists for the Maple Leafs.

Ottawa is coming in hot, but Toronto finds a way to scratch out a win.

Prediction: Maple Leafs win 3-2 in overtime.

Prop Bets of the Night

We wrap up NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Let’s stay with our featured game for our preferred props. For Ottawa, go with Brady Tkachuk to score a goal in this one. On the Toronto end, take John Tavares to get the over on 0.5 assists in this one.

Main photo by: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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The 2025 NHL trade deadline was just over a week ago, but the early returns are positive. Even though the Ottawa Senators are an overall streaky team, they have continued their winning ways from before the deadline. In March, the Sens are currently riding a 6-0-1 stretch. Moreover, one of the major contributing factors since the deadline, starts and finishes with the stats of Dylan Cozens. Cozens has been a force to be reckoned with for Ottawa. So, let’s dig in and see what we can discover on just how good the fit in the Canadian national capital has been thus far.

Dylan Cozens Stats and Player Analysis in 2024-25

Before we look at his time in Ottawa exclusively, let’s consider where his NHL career started, with the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres had built a physical roster and Cozens was an important piece to bring size and skill. Overall, it is surprising Buffalo isn’t a playoff contender based on their roster. However, to watch them play is a bit of a mess and why the trade itself made sense. General manager Kevyn Adams was trying to shake up the roster composition of the Sabres. Conversely, for Ottawa and GM Steve Staios, it certainly seems to have worked out favourably.

On the season, in 65 games, Cozens has 13 goals, 22 assists, and 35 points. This total would have him seventh on the current Sens roster in points. (Interestingly enough, one point behind fellow newcomer Fabian Zetterlund.) Another statistic that shows Cozens’ value (and Zetterlund’s, too) is expected goals. This was a focus of the off-season player additions. Michael Amadio, Nick Cousins, and David Perron were all strong in that statistic last year. Therefore, from a statistical standpoint, it’s easy to why Cozens would potentially fit and play an impactful role with the group.

Cozens is an Excellent Fit in a Senators Sweater

For more Dylan Cozens individual stats, he may not be tearing it up but still very consistent. More specifically, he’s started strong with the Senators. In four games with Ottawa, he has two goals and two assists with 11 shots. That included a career-high nine hits in his Sens debut versus the New York Rangers when he played a total of 17:27. Furthermore, he’s up to a total of 20 hits in a Sens uniform, averaging 15:34 a game. In terms of xGoals, he’s been on fire. In two games he finished with the third best standing on the team. Then, last game vs the Boston Bruins, he was tops at 1.694. The next closest player was Shane Pinto at 0.611 and Tkachuk was slowed. So, Cozens has been getting it done on the scoresheet and analytically.

What Does It All Mean for Cozens and Ottawa

Of course, hockey is not all stats (except maybe the win column). But then again, that’s where Cozens still finds success, the intangibles. He will seemingly engage in battles with anybody. In addition, he’s strong enough to be doing the pushing and not getting pushed around. He combines that with the stickhandling to be able to battle through the traffic. Cozens (and Zetterlund) seem to have injected this Sens lineup with an element that is hard to bottle up. They control the game and help round out the forward group with speed, size, and skill.

In any sense, if Ottawa does prevail in their playoff race, they and many thanks to Cozens and Zetterlund, will be a worthy foe for any opponent. As the stretch drive wears on, the Sens hope their streaking ways stay on the warm side. If it does, they will easily hold on to their current playoff position. 

Main Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Every day, Last Word on Hockey provides insights and analysis to predict the outcome of the games on the NHL schedule. Today, we will examine the matchup between the Boston Bruins and the Ottawa Senators. Be sure to check out all of our NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season approaches the playoff race.

NHL Predictions

Boston Bruins vs Ottawa Senators

Head-to-Head: Bruins 1-2 Senators

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: NESN; SN; TSN; ESPN+

This round of NHL predictions will be a good one. The Bruins (30-28-8) head to Ottawa to take on the Senators (34-25-5) Thursday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. Thursday’s matchup will be the fourth and final meeting between these two Atlantic division foes, with Ottawa leading the season series 2-1. All of a sudden, this game has some serious meaning, with both of these teams in the thick of the chaotic Eastern conference wild card race. As of late, these two teams have provided a terrific on ice product. The Bruins are coming off twi huge victories over Tampa Bay and Florida. While the Senators are riding a four game win streak.

Keep Playing With an Edge

The Bruins are running off of pure post trade deadline adrenaline. After their front office made some major changes, the B’s have played like an entirely new team. Led by Nikita Zadorov, Boston has played like a much meaner and tougher squad. Zadorov and the Bruins are coming off of an incredibly emotional comeback victory over the Panthers. The black and gold must carry over that energy and effort to Ottawa as they look to continue what could be a shocking push for the postseason.

After Florida took a 2-0 lead in the third period, the Bruins looked to be dead. However, they showed some heart and battled back after David Pastrnak once again got the offence rolling. To be successful against the Sens, Boston must play with that intensity for a full 60 minutes. 10 Bruins recorded at least two hits against the Panthers as Patrick Brown led the way with six. If they lay the body like that on Thursday, they will find success as the Senators don’t play as tough as the Panthers do. Treating every game like a playoff game from here on out will go along way for the future of this new core, even if they fail to reach the postseason.

Boston’s offensive play was excellent in the final frame against the Cats. Pastrnak led the way, but Pavel Zacha finding the back of the net is massive for his confidence as the forward has struggled to score this season. He will need to continue to generate offence to beat Ottawa. Newcomer, Casey Mittelstadt has two assists in two games as a Bruin, providing some much needed puck skills to the lineup. He will be needed to continue his playmaking abilities. Jeremy Swayman is expected to start against his best friend, Linus Ullmark.

Follow the Leader

The Senators are getting hot at the right time. With just 18 games left on their schedule they currently occupy the top wildcard spot in the East with 73 points. The Sens enter Thursday’s game winning five of their last six games, including a four game win streak. Captain, Brady Tkachuk has the led the way for Ottawa, as he is currently playing some of the best hockey of his career.

After getting a taste of real competitive hockey in the Four Nations Tournament, it’s safe to say Brady is built for the postseason. Tkachuk has seven goals in his last seven games, scoring in six of them. The 25-year-old has emerged as one of the NHL’s best captains, leading his team into battle every night. Tkachuk sets the tone for Ottawa which allows guys like Tim Stützle and Drake Batherson to get their offensive games going. If their leader is on his game, the Sens will always have a chance to come out on top.

The Senators deadline deals have had a very positive effect on the team. Dylan Cozens has a point in all three of his games as a Senator. The 24-year-old has scored in back to back games. On the other hand, Fabian Zetterlund has yet to get going but he will be needed in order to steal two points from a determined Bruins group. Ullmark is expected to face his former partner in crime, Swayman,

Predictions

Two of the most determined teams in the league face off but only one can come away with the victory. The Bruins look to ride the high of a gutsy win over a rival while the Senators have some serious momentum form their last four games. The black and gold look like a team that has something to prove after a heartbreaking trade deadline. Led by Swayman and Pastrnak the Bruins determined effort may be too much for the red hot Senators.

Prediction: Bruins Win 4-2

Prop Bets of the Night

We close out NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Pastrnak was a man on a mission against the Panthers, recording a goal and an assist. Expect him to score again if the Bruins are to be victorious. The superstar is a +110 to find the back of the net. Tkachuk is on fire and in a playoff like atmosphere do not expect the Sens leader to slow down. The power forward is a +120 to score. Boston is a +162 underdog on the road.

Main photo by: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

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Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled then offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups. Today we are looking at the game between the Detroit Red Wings vs. Ottawa Senators. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2024-25 season continues.

NHL Predictions

Edmonton Oilers vs Buffalo Sabres

Head-to-Head: Oilers 1-0 Sabres

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

We open up NHL predictions with the Edmonton Oilers visiting the Buffalo Sabres. Stuart Skinner is the expected starter for the Oilers, but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Edmonton is 4-6 in the last 10 games, but are coming into this matchup with two consecutive victories. Leon Draisaitl continues to put up big numbers with 46 goals and 49 assists for the Oilers.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen is the projected starter for a Buffalo team that’s lost six consecutive games. Trying to contain Connor McDavid and Draisaitl will certainly not help trying to stop the bleeding. The Sabres are actually 15-14-3 at home so far this season. Tage Thompson has been a bright spit wuth 31 goals with 23 assists for Buffalo.

Buffalo played Edmonton tough last time out, but Edmonton should get the victory.

Prediction: Oilers win 4-1.

Detroit Red Wings vs Ottawa Senators

Head-to-Head: Red Wings 1-1 Senators

Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: Amazon Prime Video (Canada); Fan Duel Sports Detroit; ESPN+

We go to our featured game between the Red Wings and Senators, which has big Stanley Cup Playoff implications. Cam Talbot is the likely starter for the Red Wings, who are 3-6-1 in the last 10 games. This recent sour run includes five straight losses as Detroit tries to stem the tide. Lucas Raymond has collected 22 goals and 43 assists for the Red Wings.

Linus Ullmark is the projected starter for the Senators, who are 4-5-1 in the last 10 games. However, Ottawa has won two straight game entering this pivotal game for post-season positioning. German standout Tim Stutzle has registered 20 goals and 45 assists for the Senators.

Both teams need a victory, but Ottawa gets the victory in this important game.

Prediction: Senators win 4-2.

Chicago Blackhawks vs Colorado Avalanche

Head-to-Head: Blackhawks 2-0 Avalanche

Time: 9 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: Chicago Sports Network +; Altitude; ESPN+

Prediction: Avalanche win 5-2.

Toronto Maple Leafs vs Utah Hockey Club

Head-to-Head: Maple Leafs 1-0 Utah HC

Time: 10 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

TV: Utah16; SNO; ESPN+

Our last game of NHL predictions has the Toronto Maple Leafs visiting the Utah Hockey Club. Anthony Stolarz is the expected starter for Toronto, which is 6-3-1 in the last 10 games. However, the Maple Leafs have dropped three consecutive games entering this matchup. John Tavares has been averaging over a point a game as of late with five goals and added six assists over the last 10 games.

Utah is projected to start Karel Vejmelka in between the pipes in this game. We’re also seeing Utah playing some good hockey as of late with a 6-3-1 mark in the last 10 games. However, Utah is coming into this game after losing its last time out. Clayton Keller has been racking up the points as of late with five goals and 10 assists over the past 10 games.

These two teams have been playing well, but Toronto rebounds with the win.

Prediction: Maple Leafs win 5-3.

Prop Bets of the Night

We wrap up NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. Let’s go to our featured game for our preferred props. For Ottawa, take Brady Tkachuk to get the over on 0.5 points in this game. On the Detroit side, take Alex DeBrincat to score a goal in this one.

Main photo by: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

The post NHL Predictions: March 10 Detroit Red Wings vs Ottawa Senators appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.

After a game and some time to reflect, it’s time to give the Ottawa Senators 2025 NHL Trade Deadline analysis. The Senators had a tremendous come-from-behind victory yesterday afternoon. After a slow start to the game, the Sens would comeback from a 3-1 lead after the halfway mark of the third period. One of their new additions, Dylan Cozens, got his first point in Sens colours and he collected a career high of nine hits. So, early returns are positive. Next, the other major add, Fabian Zetterlund, looks to be ready for their next game versus Detroit on Monday. Therefore, let’s analyze where the Sens stand and whether or not they are better off than they were Thursday (before the trades).

Analyzing the Senators Acquiring Cozens and Zetterlund at the Trade Deadline

Let’s first touch on who general manager Steve Staios parted ways with on the deadline. It was an emotional day, as the friendships and bonds that existed on this group were tight. That’s (at least) partly to explain why it took so long for the organization to move one of the original, young core members. That being Norris yesterday. He had great bonds with Drake Batherson and Brady Tkachuk in particular, among most of the Sens team.

During his tenure in Ottawa, at times Joshua Norris and whichever his line combination was, could dominate stretches. For example, back to 2021-22, the like of Norris, Tkachuk, and Batherson played together often. That was the year Norris netted 35. Moreover, Bathman had a 0.96 points-per-game and Tkachuk had 30 goals and 37 assists. They were a force. It wasn’t always that smooth for Norris, who collectively missed a lot of time with injuries to his shoulders.   

Norris, himself as a player, combines great speed with tenacity on the puck. However, it may be partly a factor in his injuries of always being on the puck and simply be susceptible for a higher-rate of impact events. Furthermore, that’s why the periodical discussion of shifting him to the wing makes sense. 

Who Else the Senators Gave Up

The other piece the Sens gave up with deep ties to this club was Jacob Bernard-Docker. In some ways, Bernard-Docker, like Norris, never really fulfilled their expectations in the black, red, white, and gold of the Senators kit. JBD also had close ties with this group. That was because he was a part of the University of North Dakota track for the show.

JBD has played well as a depth guy, but his game relies on rhythm at some level. He’s a decent skater with a strong breakout pass and succeeds when he is making plays, ultimately. He played 25 games with Ottawa this year, recording four points and playing 13:06 a game. In addition, right now he is only coming back from an ankle injury. It remains to be seen how his value works into who ultimately won these trades. His performance has been undervalued, combined with a lack of opportunity.

Zack Ostapchuk and Noah Gregor were also moved on by the Sens. Ostapchuk will be an excellent bottom-six, physical presence through his NHL playing career. However, trading away the talented rookie was another difficult decision for Staios and staff. In contrast, where Gregor hadn’t been with the team very long, he was easier to move on from. Noah Gregor is a fine fringe AHL/NHL guy, who gives you responsible minutes and was playing well with Ottawa this year. In 281 career games, oh yeah, he has 69 points.

Zetterlund and Cozens and the Other Senators Trade Deadline Acquisition

As for the adds the Sens made, Zetterlund and Cozens do check the boxes. Even adding a tough, physical depth defender is not to go unnoticed (Dennis Gilbert). For starters in comparing the players to their predecessors, Norris’ and Cozen contracts both expire in 2030. Norris is priced at a $7.95M average annual value. Cozens comes in a little cheaper at $7.1M, thus Staios ended up cutting cost. Even if it was just a little, it allows for more roster flexibility as they’re up against the cap this season. Today’s game was another example of going with 11-7. 

Looking at the other player, Zetterlund’s contract ends this summer, making him a restricted free agent. He is currently earning $1.45M, so it won’t be a big hit to Ottawa right now. As we alluded to, Ottawa is lucky somewhat they are under the cap.

Analytically Reviewing the Trade

Looking at Zetterlund statistically, Zetterlund’s line has been extremely efficient this year in San Jose. He’s really seeming to come into his own and seems to be a threat offensively. In 227 career NHL games, he is a respectable 10% shooter.  However, he has been trending upward with a higher frequency of total shots on goal. Last year, he had 204 shots in nearly 19 minutes of ice time. His ice time dipped a bit this year. That likely due to the emergence of Macklin Celebrini, but his production was slightly above last year’s pace at the time of the trade.  

If we analyze the numbers comparison of Cozens and Norris the points/60 minutes even strength stat works. Even though, fundamentally, Norris is clearly on par with Cozens in the stat, the true tell of their value is in games played. You need to be on the ice to be producing and that was knock against Norris in the Sens uniform.

At the end of the day, Norris had been the target of trade rumours for a long time and it is some weight off his shoulders. He can leave Ottawa, and hopefully his injury troubles, behind him and look to continue to carve his path as a great NHL player. So, with the Sens getting the better (in terms of value to the team) of the two between Cozens and Norris, and then Zetterlund is the next, best player involved in the transactions, the Sens definitely came out on top on trade deadline day in 2025. After a big 4-3 overtime winner from Tkachuk yesterday, the Sens moved out of the tie with the Rangers in points and now the stretch drive can really begin. 

Main Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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