The Ottawa Senators are heading home facing a 2-0 playoff series deficit against the Carolina Hurricanes, a familiar position from last season.
Despite the similar situation, the team expresses a different level of confidence and excitement heading into Game 3 at Canadian Tire Centre.
"We feel a lot better than being down 2-0 last year," stated Senators winger Drake Batherson. "We’ve got a lot of confidence. We’re excited to get in front of our fans."
Forward Warren Foegele added, "This group’s hungry and this group’s confident. We have a wonderful opportunity."
Head coach Travis Green anticipates the home crowd will provide a boost, but emphasizes the need for consistent play.
Defensive concerns persist, with Artem Zub out of the lineup and Tyler Kleven nearing a return after a jaw injury. Heavy minutes were logged by Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot in Game 2.
"We’re gonna do whatever it takes to win," Green affirmed, prepared to utilize his key players extensively if needed.
The Senators are focused on managing emotions after a difficult Game 2 and moving past losses, a characteristic of deep playoff runs.