It clicked, finally. The game against the Ranger was everything I hoped the Senators would be able to do with an injury list as long as a political debate. Everything was there, everything clicked and the Sens played up to their capabilities.



I was thoroughly impressed by the work ethics on the ice, most surprised by the work of newcomer Kaspars Daugavins. Wow, the kid, can make things happen and is smart. I especially like his no-nonsense approach to the game: he makes smart plays but doesn't over-reach: when all else fails, put the puck on the net. His presence elevated the play of the fourth line. Also impressive in his work ethics and heads-up play was Alex Kovalev, who put the puck on net no less than nine times, the most of any player on the ice last night, and was a huge contribution factor to the win.

Everything was done right, the defense pinched and was a threat. The first period was so totally one-sided that it was disappointing to leave the ice with a 0-0 tie. But the work ethics remained and paid off in the end. The type of play we saw last night would have done short shrift of the Hurricanes and the Thrashers.

Kudos all around for a well-deserved two points.