In a hard-fought battle at PPG Paints Arena, the Ottawa Senators overcame the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 on February 2, 2026, ending Pittsburgh’s impressive six-game winning streak. Led by standout performances from Tim Stützle, Drake Batherson, and Claude Giroux, the Senators showcased their physicality and resilience to secure the victory in front of a raucous home crowd.
First Period: Penguins Strike First, But Senators Respond
The game opened with high intensity as the Penguins looked to extend their hot streak to seven. Pittsburgh drew first blood when Igor Chinikov capitalized on a crisp cross-ice pass from Benny Malin, firing a quick shot through the five-hole to make it 1-0. The “Russian Connection,” as commentators dubbed it, struck early, highlighting the Penguins’ offensive prowess.
However, Ottawa wasn’t deterred. Applying relentless forechecking and physical play, the Senators tied the game late in the period. Mike Amadio ended his 24-game goal drought by pouncing on a rebound and burying it past Penguins goaltender Arturs Silovs. The period featured strong defensive efforts from both sides, with Silovs making acrobatic saves, including a post-to-post denial on Brady Tkachuk.
Second Period: Power Plays and Ties
The middle frame saw penalties play a key role. Ottawa earned a power play opportunity, and they made it count. Tim Stützle set up Drake Batherson on a breakaway, and although Silovs initially stopped the shot, Batherson followed up on the rebound to give the Senators a 2-1 lead.
Pittsburgh responded swiftly. Tommy Novak tied the game at 2-2 with a clever deflection, using his body position to redirect the puck into the net. The period was marked by big hits, including one from Jett Woo on Stützle, and turnovers that kept the momentum swinging. Commentators noted the Senators’ speed bursts and the Penguins’ strong work in the offensive zone, emphasizing how Ottawa’s physical style made them a tough matchup: “They’re physical. Hey, they’re alone and have been for the Penguins to handle the way they play the last few years.”
Third Period: Giroux’s Heroics Seal the Deal
The final period delivered the drama fans crave. Claude Giroux became the hero for Ottawa, scoring the game-winner in controversial fashion. After a penalty draw led to chaos in front of the net—where Carlson knocked down Jaru—Giroux crashed into Silovs and the post, pushing the puck across the line. Despite heated discussions and a review, the goal stood, as officials confirmed: “The puck completely crosses the goal line on the play. Therefore, we have a good goal.”
Pittsburgh pushed hard for an equalizer, but Ottawa’s defense held firm, winning crucial puck battles and limiting second-chance opportunities. As the horn sounded, the Senators celebrated a hard-earned 3-2 win, torturing the Penguins with their relentless style.
Key Performances and Insights
- Tim Stützle (OTT): Goal and assist, showcasing his playmaking ability.
- Drake Batherson (OTT): Two assists, including the setup on his own rebound goal.
- Claude Giroux (OTT): Game-winning goal, adding veteran leadership.
- Arturs Silovs (PIT): Made several highlight-reel saves, described as “acrobatic athletic saves going post to post,” keeping the Penguins in the game.
- Igor Chinikov (PIT): Opened the scoring, part of Pittsburgh’s early push.
The win highlighted Ottawa’s ability to capitalize on rebounds and power plays, while their physical forechecking disrupted Pittsburgh’s rhythm. Emotional reunions, like with former teammate Nick Cousins, added extra intensity to the matchup.
This victory boosts the Senators’ momentum as they continue their push in the Atlantic Division, while the Penguins will look to regroup after their streak ends. For more NHL action, stay tuned to upcoming games.
