Senators News & Rumours: Hamonic, Ullmark, Amadio & Cozens

Hamonic’s goal came in the second period, tying the game at 2-2. He also assisted Michael Amadio’s goal, helping Ottawa grab a 3-2 lead in the third period. This marked his first goal of the season and ended a 75-game goal-scoring drought. His last goal came on Dec. 15, 2023, against the Dallas Stars. Although Hamonic isn’t known for his offense, his two-point game was a warm spot for the Senators on an otherwise frosty night.

On the season, he has primarily been relied upon for his defensive play, adding 83 blocked shots and 62 hits in 53 games. He’s valuable even though he has only five points this season because he provides a physical presence on the blue line.

Item 2: Linus Ullmark Fades Late Against the Canadiens

Linus Ullmark’s recent solid play came to a sudden end last night. He stopped 27 of 31 shots but couldn’t hold his usual strong form late in the game. But the score was worse than it looks. Two of Montreal’s goals came into empty nets after the Senators had pulled him in a last-ditch effort to tie the game.

After the Senators grabbed a 2-1 lead into the third period, momentum shifted quickly after Lane Hutson’s early goal. The puck was tipped through a screen, and Ullmark didn’t react. This goal tipped the scales in Montreal’s favor, and the Canadiens snapped the Senators’ six-game winning streak.

The loss was Ullmark’s first in regulation in March. The Swedish goaltender has been key in Ottawa’s playoff push, putting up a strong 6-1-1 record this month. His current stability in the net comes after a rough February. Over his last seven starts, he recorded a .913 save percentage and 2.69 goals-against average, significantly improving his numbers last month.

Item 3: Michael Amadio and Drake Batherson Shine in Loss

Despite the Senators’ 6-3 loss, the team got contributions from Amadio, Drake Batherson, and trade deadline newcomer Dylan Cozens. Amadio’s second-period goal showed his quick decision-making and hands, following some excellent puck movement from the team. He has been playing well lately and, after a slow start, has been a solid depth forward.

Batherson has been steady for Ottawa all season. Last night, he scored in the third period to tie the game 3-3. Cozens assisted on the goal.

Item 4: The Dylan Cozens Trade Continues to Work for the Senators

Cozens, acquired at the trade deadline, continues to show value in Ottawa’s top six. His assist on Batherson’s goal pushed his point streak to two goals and three assists in his first six games with the Senators. Cozens has already been impactful and looks to be a key asset in Ottawa’s push for the playoffs. He gives the Senators more offensive depth, which should help as they enter the season’s final stretch.

Surprisingly, he has also shown a physical edge to his game that many fans might not have expected. While some anticipated him to be more of a scorer, he has proven to be an all-around tough player to play against. He fits the Senators’ mold and could be a key piece as they prepare for the postseason.

What’s Next for the Senators?

The Senators host the Colorado Avalanche tomorrow night. After a tough loss to Montreal, the Senators must regroup quickly to have a chance against the 2022 Stanley Cup champs. The Avalanche are one of the best teams in the league, and the Senators need their best effort to avoid back-to-back losses.

Ottawa must also tighten up its defensive play and avoid costly penalties like the one that led to Montreal’s game-winning goal. Every game is crucial for the Senators’ playoff hopes. Can they bounce back from last night’s loss and stay in the playoff hunt?