In a tightly-played defensive game that had the feel of a playoff matchup, the physical play was ratcheted up by each team. There were 58 combined hits, two fights, numerous post-whistle skirmishes and plenty of ill will.

The Rangers were unable to take advantage of four power plays but snagged a point in an overtime loss to Washington.

They’ve battled injuries for most of the season, including their starting goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, and star defenseman, Adam Fox. The poor luck caused the Rangers to sit outside a playoff spot as we approach the NHL Trade Deadline.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen: As Garrioch writes, Ottawa Senators forwards Drake Batherson and Josh Norris are getting attention ahead of the trade deadline. GM Steve Staios is working the phones to upgrade his team ahead of and at the Friday, March 7th Trade Deadline.

The Ottawa Senators are in a desperate fight for a wild card spot in the 2025 NHL Playoffs. Even so, don’t expect the team’s president of hockey operations and general manager (GM) Steve Staios to make any big trades at this season’s trade deadline on March 7.

The schedule is a lot like the weather. Everyone complains about it. But only three of the Rangers’ remaining 21 games will carry double Eastern Conference playoff implications.

The Washington Capitals visit the New York Rangers after the Capitals defeated the Ottawa Senators 5-4 in a shootout.

The NHL out-of-town scoreboard was extra kind to the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night. The Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets both had a chance to pull farther away from the Senators, but both clubs suffered regulation losses.