Not so clever title, but I'm cheating by writing this really quickly on my lunch break. Needless to say that we're once again referring to the Sens' horrible penalty record. But we're also referring to the Edmonton power play which the Sens may have to face tonight if they don't clean up their act.



The Oilers have the 6th top power play in the league, and just handed the first place Colorado Avalanche their head on Sunday by scoring four power play goals. Without those goals, it was a 2-1 victory for the Avs. Sound familiar? Yup, without those power play goals on Saturday, it was a 2-0 victory for the Sens against the Devils. Penalties cost a heck of a lot more than some think. It's important for the Sens to stay outside the box.

Five on five, the Oilers, while sporting a similar win-loss record as the Sens, shouldn't stand a chance. With the absence of Souray and Smid (who may or may not suit up), the Oilers D has had a hard time defending goalie Nikolai Khabibulin, allowing an average 34 shots per game. The Senators defense fares better, even in the absence of veteran Anton Volchenkov, only allowing 27 shots on goal per game, good for 4th in the league.

The penalties will be key. Take few, and win the game. Take many, and may as well call it a day. Again.