### Senators' Thrilling Comeback: A High-Scoring Finale to the Regular Season The Ottawa Senators concluded their regular season with an exhilarating 7-5 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on April 18, 2025. This match was significant as both teams are playoff-bound, making it a fitting end to their regular campaigns. The Senators showcased their resilience by scoring four goals in the third period, overcoming a two-goal deficit to secure the win. Notably, Drake Batherson played a pivotal role, scoring both the tying and go-ahead goals, while Adam Gaudette also contributed with multiple goals. This game not only highlighted the Senators' offensive capabilities but also served as a momentum builder heading into the playoffs, despite the game being deemed "meaningless" in terms of standings for both teams [https://www.reuters.com/sports/nhl/senators-rally-past-hurricanes-with-four-late-goals-2025-04-18, https://www.nhl.com/news/carolina-hurricanes-ottawa-senators-game-recap-april-17]. ### Breakdown of the Senators' Victory 1. **Game Overview** - The Senators scored four goals in the third period to rally from a two-goal deficit. - Final score: Senators 7, Hurricanes 5. - Both teams are heading to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. 2. **Key Players** - **Drake Batherson**: Scored the tying and go-ahead goals. - **Adam Gaudette**: Contributed with multiple goals. - **Brady Tkachuk**: Returned from injury but did not play in the third period for precautionary reasons. 3. **Game Context** - This match was the last of the regular season for both teams. - The Senators had already clinched a playoff spot prior to this game. - The Hurricanes were also playoff-bound, making the game a showcase of talent rather than a critical contest for standings. ### Supporting Evidence of Performance - **Scoring Breakdown**: - **First Period**: Senators took an early lead. - **Second Period**: Hurricanes responded, leading to a back-and-forth scoring. - **Third Period**: Senators scored four goals, including crucial ones from Batherson and Gaudette. - **Player Contributions**: - **Drake Batherson**: 2 goals, including the game-winner. - **Adam Gaudette**: Multiple goals, showcasing offensive depth. - **Brady Tkachuk**: Limited playtime but significant presence on the ice. - **Statistical Highlights**: - Senators finished the regular season with a record of 45-30-7. - The game featured a total of 12 goals, indicating a high-scoring affair [https://www.nhl.com/senators/news/sens-vs-hurricanes, https://www.startribune.com/senators-beat-the-hurricanes-7-5-in-the-regular-season-finale-for-the-playoff-bound-teams/601333867]. ### Conclusion: Senators' Momentum Heading into Playoffs In summary, the Ottawa Senators' 7-5 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes not only capped off their regular season on a high note but also set the stage for their playoff aspirations. 1. **Key Takeaways**: - The Senators demonstrated their offensive prowess with a strong third-period performance. - Key players like Batherson and Gaudette stepped up, indicating a well-rounded team effort. - The game served as a confidence booster as they head into the playoffs. 2. **Looking Ahead**: - The Senators will aim to carry this momentum into the postseason, where their ability to rally and score in crucial moments will be tested against tougher competition [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/senators_win_high_scoring_regular_season_finale_against_hurricanes/s1_16448_42068234].