Silver Nuggets: Lehner still with Ottawa--for now

At least two local writers think that Robin Lehner should get the start for the Ottawa Senators on opening night, and he fact that he's still with the team bodes well for him. But another local writer thinks Craig Anderson's going to get it, and he's used more than opinion to support his argument.

But even if Craig Anderson does get the first start of the 2013 season, his margin for error isn't great, and the fact that Lehner and Ben Bishop are still on the team's roster is proof positive of that. If Anderson falters, opportunities will be extended to both Lehner or Bishop to seize the opportunity and become starter. The odd man out will be moved--Lehner would be sent to Binghamton, while Bishop would perhaps be offered for trade. But the Sens are dealing from a position of strength at the goaltending situation, so they're not likely to rush the issue.

But there is some urgency to make a decision. Carrying three goaltenders and spreading the action around is bad for all three of them as individuals and the team as a whole. From an individual perspective, the goalies have no leeway, nor do they have an opportunity to really get rolling. From a team perspective, skaters won't be able to get used to the style of the goaltender behind them if he's constantly changing.

So what do you think: How will Ottawa's goaltending situation shake out? Will Anderson take the ball and run with it from day one? Will the team make the easy move and just send Lehner back to Bingo? Will Bishop come out strong and jump to the top of the team's depth chart? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Senators headlines:

• Free beer at the home opener. True story. (One free beer, anyway. A "sample.")
• The Sens roster's still got a few spare bodies, but it's taking shape. (Citizen)
• A bunch of folks think Jakob Silfverberg is ready for the big show. (Sportsnet)
• On preview predicts Ottawa to finish 7 in the East. (Boston Globe)
• One power ranking has the Sens 15 in the league. (USA Today)
• And another has Ottawa 16 league-wide. (NHL)

League headlines:

• Former Senator Patrick Eaves has been cleared to return to NHL action after a 14 months recovering from various injuries. It's unclear if he'll play for the Red Wings on opening night, but he's on their 23-man roster. (Winging It In Motown)
• No one seems to be giving Jakob Silfverberg the slightest glance among rookies to watch. (CBC)
• A rundown of the various opening night promotions around the league. Of those mentioned, Ottawa's seems like the best. (Pension Plan Puppets)
• Although the Sens sent both junior-aged prospects (Cody Ceci and Stefan Noesen) back to their respective teams, there are still a few remaining on NHL rosters. (Fantasy Hockey Scouts)
• A season preview of much-loved former Senator and "humble goofball" Brian McGrattan. (On The Forecheck)
• A bunch of predictions, none of which include the Senators. (SB Nation)
• After a slow start, Bobby Butler's production has taken off and he's getting a shot with the New Jersey Devils. (SI.com) Hahahaha... nevermind, they put him on waivers today!