Tankin' it: Thrashers 6, Senators 3

That was an ugly game. Especially the second period, where Atlanta scored three goals and the Sens only mustered 7 shots despite having 2 powerplays. That second frame was when the previously-tied game was broken open by the Thrashers, with three goals in 2:58 en route to their 6-3 win over the Senators. Head coach Cory Clouston looked pissed.

Ottawa goaltender Brian Elliott was pulled after Atlanta's fourth goal, but it seemed like more of a mercy pull than anything indicative of his play. The Sens' defensive coverage was simply horrible, and the Thrashers were buzzing around the offensive zone unchecked for the most part. Elliott's glove hand was on fire, and he made a few flashy saves... all he's got to do now is get more consistent on the not-so-flashy saves, and he'll be a hell of a goaltender.

There was a new look to the Senators lines to start the game, although they went back to normal for the end. Dany Heatley was on the wing with Ryan Shannon and Mike Fisher on the first (or at least starting) line, while Jason Spezza centred Daniel Alfredsson and Nick Foligno. I sometimes think that Heatley plays better when he's not playing with Spezza, but he certainly plays differently, as he admitted earlier in the season; When he's the playmaker on a line, Heatley plays a puck-control game, and can be more effective than when he's a one-dimensional trigger-man alongside Spezza. And, considering Spezza had two goals on the night (albeit one was a tip-in), maybe he plays a more aggressive style without his trigger man. He had an assist on the Sens' third goal, as well.

Chris Kelly led the team with three hits. If that's not a sign of the impending apocalypse, I don't know what is.

Whatever. I have nothing more to say about this game. But I'd love for people to offer their insights in the comments.