Sun Apr 06 21:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Senators’ Strong Defense Fuels Wild Card Lead, Sets Stage for Low-Scoring Matchup Against Blue Jackets

**Ottawa, ON** – The Ottawa Senators, riding a wave of strong defensive play, are poised for a low-scoring clash against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday, according to NHL betting analyst Todd Cordell. The Senators, currently atop the Wild Card standings after a 4-1-1 run, have allowed only 12 goals in their recent surge. Their stingy defense, which has held opponents to three goals or fewer in seven of their last eight games, is expected to be a key factor against the Blue Jackets.

Cordell’s analysis points to an “Under 6” prediction for the total goals scored, citing the Senators’ recent defensive prowess and the Blue Jackets’ recent offensive slump. Columbus ranks 25th in goals scored over the last 10 games. Furthermore, Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark is in strong form, boasting a save percentage well above the league average.

While the Senators are favored, the absence of their leading scorer, Brady Tkachuk, and the fact that the game is a back-to-back for Ottawa, suggest a cautious, defensively-minded approach. Cordell anticipates a tight, low-scoring game dictated by strong defensive structure and solid goaltending. Despite the Senators’ strong play, the analyst notes that the goal differential between the two teams isn’t drastically different, making the matchup a competitive one. The betting line has seen some adjustment, reflecting the competitive nature of the game.

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