This season, they've earned the dubious honor of being labeled the worst fighting team in the NHL. According to a recent assessment by Sportshandle, the Senators have secured victories in only 5 of their 24 bouts, positioning them at the bottom of the league in this gritty category.
Despite the ongoing debates about the role of fighting in hockey, it remains a pivotal aspect of the NHL's physical gameplay and team dynamics. Winning fights can boost team morale and fan engagement, something the Senators have found challenging this season. Other teams that struggled in this regard include the San Jose Sharks, Nashville Predators, Vegas Golden Knights, Arizona Coyotes, and closely followed by the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers. Particularly, the Predators found themselves on the losing end more often, having been defeated in 22 fights�the highest in the league.
On the flip side, teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, Anaheim Ducks, and Colorado Avalanche have shown formidable prowess in on-ice confrontations. The Flyers, for instance, have an impressive record, clinching wins in 22 out of 23 fights. Players like Nic Deslauries, Kurtis MacDermid, and Tom Wilson have maintained unbeaten records this season, setting a high standard for toughness and resilience.
Whether one advocates for or against fighting in hockey, its impact on the game is undeniable. It's about more than just throwing punches; it's a strategic element that involves defending teammates, deterring opponents, and sometimes, changing the momentum of the game.
For a team like the Ottawa Senators, improving their fight record could be a small but significant step toward regaining competitiveness and team spirit. As the NHL evolves, the balance between skill play and physicality will continue to shape the fortunes of teams like the Senators, who are eager to climb back to prominence.
Source: SportsHandle
POLL | ||
Do you enjoy watching hockey fights? | ||
Yes, love it | 105 | 69.1 % |
No, it's old fashioned, leave if behind | 42 | 27.6 % |
See Results | 5 | 3.3 % |
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