Is it Realistic? Analyzing the Ottawa Senators Playoff Chances

The Ottawa Senators lost 5-1 to the Vegas Golden Knights on November 23rd, 2022. They were 10 points out of a playoff spot and it seemed the playoffs were out the question. Now they are 6-12-2 and they have re-entered the conversation.

The Ottawa Senators have gone 12-5-2 since their poor start. Their special teams and their goalie play are the main reasons for their improvement. They are still unlikely to make the playoffs, but they could be a worthy entrant if they play up to their potential. They could finish anywhere in the 10th-20th range. The team is currently 18-17-3 and is 23rd in points percentage. It's fair to say they're about an average team.

The Ottawa Senators are seven points behind the New York Islanders. They have a game in hand, but they have to get three more wins to catch the Islanders and the Penguins. The Penguins have the better points percentage, so they could be seven more points back with no games inhand. Ottawa has a 22.6% chance of making the playoffs. The team is playing well lately and their fans are excited. If they don't make it, it won't be a great injustice. It's exciting that they're making us believe they can do it. After an incredibly frustrating month and a half, this season is salvageable.