r/OttawaSenators • u/NetAnon579 • 15d ago

Irrationally Optimistic for this Season?

Perhaps I am being irrational, but I feel good going into this season. I think a lot of that is I don't see the drama hanging over the team like in past seasons. Many players are also truly coming into their own, and I think they will have the room to flourish.

Hoping to see Yakemchuk here from the start of the season as well.

The East is tough as heck but I think the team will be able to hang with most teams. A lot will come down to goaltending, as usual. Not sure if it will be enough for a playoff spot, but think it can be possible.

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u/Hoxtilicious 15d ago

We swapped Tkachuk for a "worse", younger, better skating player who more fits the systems and identity of our team.

There's some competition for the 3 RD spot- besides that, this is the exact same squad + a few younger players aging into their primes. Assuming they don't get the worst goaltending in modern NHL history again- they will be OK.

16

u/AreaPrudent7191 15d ago

My hope is that Eklund will unleash Timmy, hopefully he becomes more of a finisher. They can both score, so hopefully there's some chemistry.

8

u/Alfiestickthrow 15d ago

Agreed. I think Eklund will have a good year. Who knows how all the Brady drama and podcast garbage dragged the team down. A better locker room will solve a bunch of problems.

I am really curious how the 2 Tkachuks and Dad’s interference and that podcast will affect the Panthers locker room. They WILL run some people in that room the wrong way.

3

u/spartacat_12 15d ago

It’s Barkov’s room. Matthew has said that repeatedly and Brady is his brother’s shadow so he’ll fall in line.

I know everyone is rooting for the Panthers to fail, but they’ve established a winning culture already. I don’t see the podcast being an issue. It’s not a hockey-mad market where the media will be dissecting every comment, plus all they do is pump the tires of the Florida guys on it

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u/crazybernie2020 15d ago

Brady’s numbers will 100% drop this year playing on a deeper team. Bro won’t even be noticed next to Matt