Article:Pens vs Sens - Game Three Preview

Hopefully yesterday's chain of events in the Eastern Conference isn't any indication of what the Penguins can expect tonight. Both Montreal and New York watched their 2-0 series leads diminish to 2-1. Now, with the Penguins heading up to Ottawa for two games, is it possible the same can happen to them?

Confidence will say no way. Reality will say there's always a chance.

But those chances may be slimmer for Ottawa tonight, as rumors around the camp indicate that Jason Spezza did not participate in the Sunday morning skate. Reportedly, Spezza jammed his leg in Game 2 and may be a scratch for three. Jammed leg or not, something tells me this guy is going to play. There's too much on the line for a competitor to sit this one out.

Although - Daniel Alfreddson may still be out for three.

Expect boos to echo through the rafters of the Scotia Centre whenever Crosby touches the puck. Ottawa fans did it last year and they'll probably do it again. They may even extend that welcome to the likes of Malkin and Hossa as well.

Needless to say, this is a must-win game for the Senators. Pittsburgh would love to take a 3-0 lead, but Ottawa would be more than willing to tie it up before heading back to Pitt. As long as Pittsburgh can handle the puck in the offensive zone like they've been doing all series, then victory should not be too far off. Yet the biggest factor on Ottawa's end all comes down to how Martin Gerber plays tonight.

We'll find out soon enough when the puck drops at 7pm.

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