Really keyed in on Norris and Kleven last game. Norris was super patient, let the puck come to him defensively and he really dealt with the puck well when he got it. He was mucking and using his body well to shield the puck, I thought he looked good and he got an assist. The line overall looked a bit flat but I think it’s because after they scored 2 they were really focused on playing D.
Kleven looked shaky early but after he hit Reinhardt and caused that cut I thought he looked great, he was assertive, he stayed within himself and he was big. He just went into the corner at times and just bulled his way to the puck and protected it.
Overall I thought the Sens did a really good job of shielding and protecting pucks defensively at times. The Sens had a habit of slowing the game at times down with lobs, freezing pucks with their bodies and just always hounding the puck. Not used to a team controlling game play. I think Ullmark had a lot to do with that, his rebound control was Marty Brodeuresque at times, he made a few rebound passes into the slot right onto our own stick for counter attack. Ullmark might be the best goalie we’ve ever had. Only 1 game but he’s much more calm then Craig Anderson, Andy had that bald guy complex in net, Ullmark is like a chill farmer with a PHD in happiness.
They took a lot of punishment and blocked lots of shots. A real blue collar effort from a team of shooters. Great first game, they were patient and they seemed to all get what the coaching staff wants.
I’m sure after the game Staois, Poulin, Damaoi, Green and the coaching staff were all ecstatic. If the Sens are already this well coached the formula and everything they worked for is a success. It’s only 1 game but to have it all come together so seamlessly with all the changes - chefs kiss to management and the coaching staff and the players.
A New era has begun. Best Sens team ever maybe. Let’s see, but this team has so much room to grow.