Ottawa Getting Healthy!

Slowly but surely the Ottawa Senators are getting healthy which could easily set them up for a strong second half. Heading into Pittsburgh tonight for a date with the Stanley Cup Champion Penguins the Senators will have three players who have been chomping at the bit back in action at one hundred percent and ready to contribute. Tending goal will be Pascal Leclaire who was sidelined for a month after breaking his cheekbone. “I’m really excited, especially to get a chance to do it before Christmas,” Leclaire who has a 2.71 GAA in 16 starts this season said. “It’s been a long time, one of those freak things, but it’s behind me and it’s just great being around the guys again and getting a chance to play.”  Also returning is bruising forward Chris Neil who brings that physical element to the team in not just fighting but also dishing out punishing body checks. “I hate watching games, Neil who has five points in 22 games said. “It’s frustrating when you know you’d like to be out there contributing in whatever way you can.”  Even though he will never lead the team in scoring Neil who has spent his entire seven year career with the Senators brings strong leadership skills to the team. “He leads our team in hits by forwards, he’s an intimidating player. He’s played very well-he’s chipped in the odd important goal.” Some more character will be back in the lineup with veteran forward Shean Donovan who has been out since November 20 with a knee injury. Ottawa who are coming off a 2-0 home loss against the Boston Bruins have always had good luck in Pittsburgh where they have won three straight meetings. If you’re a betting man put your money on the Senators tonight.