Both teams have trouble scoring with the Senators ranking 28th in goals per game and the Red Wings rating 26th.

I'm expecting a conservative, tight-checking game between these two teams with the Senators, who have won just four times in their past 21 games, knowing they have a real shot at a victory here.

The Senators, though, will have to accomplish that with defense. If you discount a five-goal performance versus Columbus, the Senators have scored just one goal in their last three games. Part of the problem is the Senators' passive attack. They have drawn just five power play opportunities in their past four games, failing to score on each one.

The Red Wings are much stronger defensively at home. They've allowed only seven goals in regulation in their past five home contests. Jimmy Howard has been playing well in net for Detroit giving up seven goals during his last four starts. He's allowed three goals to Ottawa in two games this season.