30 Facts About Senators Vs. Canadiens

Senators vs. Canadiens: A Storied Rivalry

The Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens have a rich history in the NHL. Their matchups are always intense, filled with memorable moments. Here are some fascinating facts about these two iconic teams.

Historical Background

Understanding the origins of these teams provides context for their rivalry.

1. The Ottawa Senators were founded in 1992, making them a relatively new team compared to the Montreal Canadiens, who were established in 1909.
2. The Canadiens are the oldest professional hockey team in the world, with a history that spans over a century.
3. Montreal Canadiens have won 24 Stanley Cups, the most in NHL history, while the Senators have yet to win their first.
4. The original Ottawa Senators, who played from 1883 to 1934, won 11 Stanley Cups before the team folded.

Memorable Games

Some games between these teams have become legendary.

5. In the 2013 playoffs, the Senators defeated the Canadiens in a heated first-round series, winning 4-1.
6. The first-ever game between the modern Senators and Canadiens took place on October 8, 1992, with Montreal winning 5-3.
7. On March 15, 2008, the Senators set a franchise record by scoring seven goals in the first period against the Canadiens, ultimately winning 7-5.

Player Highlights

Players from both teams have made significant impacts.

8. Daniel Alfredsson, a Senators legend, scored 426 goals and 682 assists during his career with Ottawa.
9. Maurice "Rocket" Richard, a Canadiens icon, was the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in a season.
10. Erik Karlsson, a former Senators captain, won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman twice while playing for Ottawa.
11. Carey Price, the Canadiens' star goaltender, won the Hart Trophy as the league's MVP in 2015.

Fan Culture

The fans of these teams are passionate and dedicated.

12. Senators fans are known for their "Sens Army" chants, creating an electrifying atmosphere at home games.
13. Canadiens fans, often called "Habs," are famous for their unwavering support and the "Go Habs Go" chant.
14. The Bell Centre, home of the Canadiens, is the largest hockey arena in the NHL with a seating capacity of 21,302.
15. Senators fans have a tradition of wearing red during playoff games, known as the "Red Scarf Brigade."

Coaching and Management

Leadership has played a crucial role in shaping these teams.

16. Jacques Martin, who coached the Senators from 1996 to 2004, is the winningest coach in franchise history with 341 victories.
17. Scotty Bowman, who coached the Canadiens from 1971 to 1979, led the team to five Stanley Cup championships.
18. Bryan Murray, a beloved figure in Ottawa, served as both head coach and general manager for the Senators.
19. Marc Bergevin, the current general manager of the Canadiens, has been with the team since 2012 and has made several key trades and signings.

Rivalry Moments

Key moments have defined the rivalry between these teams.

20. During the 2013 playoffs, a brawl broke out in Game 3, resulting in over 200 penalty minutes.
21. In 2015, Senators' goaltender Andrew Hammond, known as "The Hamburglar," led Ottawa to an improbable playoff berth, defeating the Canadiens in several crucial games.
22. The 2017 Winter Classic featured the Senators and Canadiens playing outdoors at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, with the Senators winning 3-0.

Community Impact

Both teams have made significant contributions to their communities.

23. The Senators Foundation has raised millions for local charities, focusing on youth programs and health initiatives.
24. The Canadiens Children's Foundation has donated over $30 million to support underprivileged children in Quebec.
25. Senators players often visit local hospitals and schools, engaging with fans and giving back to the community.
26. The Canadiens host an annual blood drive, encouraging fans to donate and support local blood banks.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, both teams have promising futures.

27. The Senators have a young core of talented players, including Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle, who are expected to lead the team for years to come.
28. The Canadiens have a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, with players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield showing great potential.
29. Both teams have invested in state-of-the-art training facilities to develop their players and improve performance.
30. The rivalry between the Senators and Canadiens is expected to continue growing, providing fans with exciting and memorable moments for years to come.

Final Whistle

The Senators and Canadiens have a rivalry that’s rich in history and excitement. From their first face-off to their most recent clash, these teams have given fans countless memorable moments. Whether it’s the Senators’ resilience or the Canadiens’ legacy, both teams bring something special to the ice.

Understanding the key facts about their rivalry helps appreciate the depth of their competition. From record-breaking games to legendary players, every detail adds to the narrative.

Next time you watch a game between these two, you’ll know the stories behind the stats. You’ll see the passion, the strategy, and the history that make each match more than just a game.

So, grab your jersey, cheer for your team, and enjoy the next chapter in the Senators vs. Canadiens saga. Hockey’s more thrilling when you know the facts!