NHL analyst Paul Bissonnette recently commented on the altercation between Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz and Ottawa Senators forward Ridly Greig during Game 2 of their opening-round series. Stolarz was seen hacking away at Greig after he invaded the crease, prompting strong words from Bissonnette.
In the midst of the physical exchange between the two players, Bissonnette praised Stolarz for handling the situation, suggesting that he should “chop his legs off next time.” The incident resulted in both players receiving minor penalties, with Stolarz getting two minutes for interference and Greig receiving two minutes for roughing.
This clash between Stolarz and Greig is just one example of the physicality that has defined the Leafs-Senators series, particularly after the extracurricular activity in Game 1. The Senators’ lack of discipline has been evident in both games, with penalties costing them crucial power play goals against the Leafs.
In Game 1, the Senators accumulated 38 penalty minutes, leading to three power play goals by the Leafs. This trend continued in Game 2, with the Senators conceding another power play goal to John Tavares in the first period. The Senators’ undisciplined play has proven costly, as they cannot afford to give the potent Leafs power play more opportunities.
While the Senators’ physicality has been an asset, their lack of discipline has been a liability. It remains to be seen if they can rein in their aggressive play and focus on scoring goals, led by captain Brady Tkachuk. Falling into a 2-0 hole after Game 2 could see a desperate Senators team looking to turn the tide in front of their hometown fans in Game 3.
In conclusion, the Senators will need to address their discipline issues if they hope to make a comeback in the series against the Maple Leafs. The physicality is important, but it must be channeled effectively to avoid giving the Leafs more opportunities to capitalize on the power play.
