Game #18 Hub: Edmonton Oilers @ Ottawa Senators

We're past the halfway point of the dreaded month of November and the Sens are still in decent position even if they're trending a bit downwards. The past two games have been frustrating but the last game specifically is definitely one everyone involved would like to forget.

The Edmonton Oilers are coming off back-to-back losses against the Leafs and Habs. They played last night and will want to salvage something from their visit to the Canadian Eastern Conference.

The Oilers aren't having the season they are hoping for after making it to the Cup finals but they're still home to two of the best players in the league and a very solid supporting cast. The Sens have lacked consistency all season but this is a game that they need to win. They have a chance to catch up to teams like the Lightning and Bruins and maintain a good position for this month. With the Golden Knights coming next, they also need some confidence and good momentum to carry into that game.

Not many changes are expected in the lineup, as per Travis Green. Here is the lineup from practice this morning, with Linus Ullmark expected to make the start.

Game Notes:

• Tonight is Hockey Fights Cancer night. Ian Mendes from the Ottawa Senators has the Staios family story about their journey as a family helping Susannah Staios win her battle.
• If you are attending the game tonight, here are some ways you can donate to the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative.
• Linus Ullmark has not been as consistent as we had hoped, but many fans forget that he hasn't been here long, and starting the season with an injury always takes time to recalibrate. Ullmark could use a win tonight, but if he doesn't get it, I think the panic levels need to simmer. He will be fine.
• Travis Green mentioned that he likes what he's seen from Travis Hamonic, which is why he is keeping him in the lineup at the expense of JBD. I am not sure what part of his game he likes, but it's also unfortunate that JBD hasn't played well enough to convince him otherwise.
• The Oilers are a team that is going to be angry but the Sens can capitalize on some of their fatigue by starting the game strongly and trying to take control of the game early, which also requires not giving McDavid and Draisaitl too much power play time.
• Noah Gregor was practicing with the team today but was in a non-contact jersey for now.
• Gary Bettman is in town and is expected to speak at a press conference before the game.
• You can catch the game on TSN5, RDS or listen live at TSN 1200.