2009-2010 record: 44-32-6 (94 points)
Lost to Pittsburgh in the 1st round 4-1
Captain: Daniel Alfreddson
Alternate captains: Mike Fisher, Chris Phillips
3 players to watch: Ottawa has long been Daniel Alfreddson's team, and as he nears 40, the window for a Stanley Cup closes just a little more. That doesn't mean he isn't still putting up the numbers, as he led the team in points. He is perhaps the quietest captain, but he is also one of the better players to currently wear the C, too. The goaltender situation is a bit of a mess, but good health and production from Pascal Leclaire should fix that. This year is practically a now or never situation for him, as he is being paid like a number one goalie, but he hasn't been able to fulfill those expectations. And given that Brian Elliot filled in pretty well last year in leading them to the playoffs, the pressure is on. Offense has been an issue since Dany Heatley bolted town, but one guy to look for is Peter Regin. He had a solid season last year, and was one of the best players in the playoff showing against the Penguins.
Things to look for: The biggest question for the Senators is in goal. If Leclaire is healthy and playing anywhere near his potential, then the Senators will be surefire playoff contenders. If he isn't, they will struggle for one of the last playoff spots. Defense is going be an issue, with shot blocker extraordinaire Anton Volchenkov leaving for New Jersey. So, who did the Senators replace him with? Offensive minded defenseman Sergei Gonchar, who will help out the power play from the blue line, but expecting any real defensive contributions from him would be unreasonable. Maybe this is the year that kids such as Brian Lee and Jared Cowen stick onto the big league team this year. The forward group is headed up by Alfredsson, who doesn't show many signs of slowing down. However, Jason Spezza and Alexei Kovalev need to step up, as both had their numbers go down from their norms last season. Nick Foligno, Mike Fisher, and Regin contributed some, and all three will be asked to contribute more offense.
Prediction: 8th in the East
Song: Anathema-Make it Right (F.F.S.)
Every year, the Sens seem to be competing for the playoffs, but are ultimately undone by their goaltending. Is this the year they solve that problem. Fans certainly hope so (F.F.S.)
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