Started writing this a week ago and then realized it's a story I've been writing for the better part of a decade.

After eight long years, the Ottawa Senators are returning to the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Some reflections on the journey back...

senschirp.ca/news/x-ottaw...

If there's one thing I've learned about the Ottawa Senators this season it's to never say anything about them ever because next week you'll be entirely wrong.

Pretty similar start to the other night in Seattle. A little sluggish but Ullmark playing well. Huge goal there late in the period.

That was a good period by a visibly nervous hockey team.

This losing streak has been frustrating and clearly triggering for fans. Feels too familiar.

Thing is, when they were dominating the Flyers 10 days ago, on the heels of impressive wins over the Bruins and Leafs, they actually looked like a team finally ready to take that next step.

10 days ago!

They'll be fine.

It might be time for a coaching change and I suspect that was coming anyway but the chant makes me wildly uncomfortable.

I would never say this on that other site because people would say I'm too optimistic and/or maybe work for the team but that was basically a perfect road period.

Go Sens Go