The Eastern Conference is tied 1-1 so Senators have some needed confidence with the series now shifting to Ottawa. The Senators gain the momentum of their boisterious home crowd, get last line change to ensure favorable matchups and their offensive task should be made easier with Pittsburgh now down its top three defensemen after Justin Schultz injured his shoulder in Game 2. The Penguins remain without Kris Letang and Trevor Daley.

The Penguins' high-powered attack has been held to two goals in the two games frustrated by the defensive-minded Senators. Winger Bryan Rust might miss this game, too, for the Penguins after suffering an upper body injury during Monday's Game 2. That could be a key injury especially if winger Patric Hornqvist can't play due to his being injured.

The Senators have held Sidney Crosby pointless. Crosby might start to get frustrated if he struggles again today. The Senators, though, need to pick it up offensively. Winger Viktor Stalberg could provide an offensive spark if he's able to come back from his injury today along with defenseman Mark Borowiecki. I wouldn't be surprised to see both players see ice time today.

Factor all this in and I'd say the Senators are a worthy home 'dog.