The 2017 Ottawa Senators playoff run was an emotional rollercoaster, chock full of memorable moments and jaw-dropping performances. The Senator’s playoff run will always have a special place in the hearts of fans, from Clarke MacArthur’s comeback to Jean-Gabriel Pageau’s four-goal effort, Erik Karlsson’s incredible plays, Kyle Turris’s clutch overtime winner, Mike Hoffman’s pivotal goals, and the heartbreaking loss in Game 7. Recalling these iconic moments and series will help us all re-live the Senator’s incredible postseason journey.
Clarke MacArthur’s Return
One of the most inspiring moments of the Senator’s playoff run came in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Boston Bruins. After battling with concussions and a lengthy absence from the game, Clarke MacArthur made his triumphant return to the ice. In a storybook comeback, MacArthur scored the first goal for the Senators, sparking an outpour of emotion from fans in the building. The game was eventually capped off by a Dion Phaneuf overtime winner that evened up the series.
Karlsson To Hoffman Wizardry
Erik Karlsson demonstrated his exceptional vision and playmaking skills during the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Bruins with a mesmerizing saucer pass to Mike Hoffman. In Game 5, with the series at 2-2, Karlsson sent a pass from behind the net that touched the sky, finding Hoffman, who used a slick Forsberg move to beat Tuukka Rask in net. The goal, which will undoubtedly go down as one of, if not the greatest Senator’s goals of all time, encapsulated Karlsson’s genius and Hoffman’s hands.
Pageau’s 4-Goal Heroics
Jean-Gabriel Pageau made Senators history by defeating the New York Rangers in a critical Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. With four goals, including the game-tying and game-winning goals in double overtime, Pageau put on an incredible performance. His outstanding display of talent and tenacity pushed the Senators to an exciting victory and cemented his status as a postseason hero. This gave the Senators a 2-0 series lead against the Rangers and was an overall morale boost for the entire team.
Turris’s Electric Overtime Winner
Kyle Turris carved his name into Senator’s lore in Game 5 of the second round against the New York Rangers. Alex Burrows made a pass across the ice to Turris in overtime, and after his initial shot was blocked, Turris was able to collect his own rebound and sneak the puck past Lundqvist, giving Ottawa a 5-4 victory. The Senators took a 3-2 series lead thanks to the goal, which also put an end to a grueling back-and-forth game. This was one of the most electric moments of the entire playoff run, and the excitement in Ottawa was nearing a breaking point!
Hoffman’s Absolute Blast
Facing elimination in Game 6 of the Conference Finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Senators needed a hero. Mike Hoffman stepped up, scoring a crucial goal late in the third period to give the Senators the lead. Hoffman’s timely goal made one of the most satisfying “pings” I have ever heard in a game of hockey. The beautiful slap shot caused the Canadian Tire Centre to absolutely erupt with excitement, and the teams were headed back to Pittsburgh.
Complete And Utter Hearbreak
In Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Senators and Penguins engaged in an unforgettable battle. Despite their valiant efforts, the Senators fell short in double overtime, ending their incredible playoff run. The loss was a heartbreaking conclusion to a series filled with ups and downs, leaving fans with a mixture of pride and disappointment. The Penguins went on to win the Stanley Cup against the Nashville Predators.
Although the Pittsburgh Penguins went on to win the Stanley Cup, the Ottawa Senator’s 2017 playoff run will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Sens fans. The memories created during that journey will be remembered and passed down, serving as a reminder of the resilience and magic that can unfold in the pursuit of playoff glory. I think I speak for all fans when I say that I cannot wait for the next chapter of Senators playoff hockey to unfold.
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