The absence of Artem Zub in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Carolina Hurricanes has raised concerns for the Ottawa Senators. Zub, a key player on the team's top defense pair, suffered an undisclosed injury early in the second period of Game 1, resulting in a 2-0 loss. This injury is a significant setback for the Senators, who are already dealing with a high number of defensemen injuries. With Zub's absence, the team must rely on other players to step up and fill the void, particularly against top-tier opponents like the Hurricanes.
One player who got the opportunity to fill Zub's role was Lassi Thomson, who was inserted into the lineup on Monday. Thomson, who was scratched in Game 1, played in 11 regular-season games, registering three assists and a plus-3 rating. While Thomson's performance in Game 1 was not disclosed, his insertion into the lineup suggests that the Senators are looking to utilize his skills to fill the gap left by Zub.
The Senators' defense has been a concern throughout the season, with the team dressing 13 defensemen during the regular season, a number that is higher than what coach Travis Green can recall in his coaching career. This high number of defensemen is a testament to the team's struggles with injuries, which have disrupted the stability of their defense pairs. Despite the challenges, the Senators have managed to maintain a close-knit group among their defensemen, with players like Jake Sanderson and Dennis Gilbert working together to fill the void left by injured teammates.
The Senators' situation highlights the challenges faced by teams in the NHL when dealing with injuries to key players. The team's ability to adapt and find solutions in the face of adversity is a testament to their resilience and determination. As the series progresses, the Senators will need to continue to find ways to overcome their injuries and maintain their competitive edge against strong opponents like the Hurricanes.
