Ottawa Senators eliminate Stanley Cup champions New Jersey Devils from playoff.

The Ottawa Senators Eliminate Stanley Cup Champions New Jersey Devils from Playoff – A Memorable Moment in 1996

On April 13, 1996, the Ottawa Senators made history as they eliminated the defending Stanley Cup champions, the New Jersey Devils, from the playoffs. This momentous event was a true underdog story, showcasing the perseverance and determination of the Senators. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting playoff matchup and how it unfolded.

The Ottawa Senators entered the 1995-1996 season with high hopes and a strong roster. Led by captain Daniel Alfredsson and head coach Jacques Martin, the team had steadily improved over the years and were finally poised to make their mark in the NHL playoffs. However, their first-round opponent was no easy task – the New Jersey Devils, who had won the Stanley Cup just a year before.

The Devils were a formidable opponent, known for their strong defensive play and disciplined style of hockey. Led by their star players, such as Martin Brodeur, Scott Stevens, and Claude Lemieux, the Devils were favored to make another deep playoff run. The Senators, on the other hand, were considered the underdogs in this matchup. But, as hockey fans know, anything can happen in the playoffs.

The series began with Game 1 on April 4, 1996, at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Devils came out strong, outshooting the Senators and securing a 5-3 victory. However, the Senators showed resilience and capitalized on their scoring opportunities, keeping the game close until the final minutes.

Game 2 took place two days later, also in East Rutherford. This time, the Senators were determined to prove that they were not going down without a fight. With stellar performances from goaltender Damian Rhodes and defenseman Lance Pitlick, the Senators managed to secure a 4-1 victory, tying the series at 1-1.

The series then shifted to Ottawa for Game 3 and Game 4. The Senators’ home crowd provided an electrifying atmosphere, energizing the team and giving them an edge. In Game 3, the Senators continued their strong play, defeating the Devils 3-1. The following game witnessed an intense battle between the two teams, with neither willing to give an inch. After a hard-fought 60 minutes of play, the Senators emerged victorious once again, winning Game 4 by a score of 2-1.

With a commanding 3-1 series lead, the Senators returned to New Jersey for Game 5. The Devils were desperate to keep their playoff hopes alive, and they showed it on the ice. However, the Senators were unyielding in their pursuit of victory. They played a tight defensive game, frustrating the Devils’ offense at every turn. Despite a valiant effort from the defending champions, the Senators held their ground and clinched the series with a 3-2 win.

The Ottawa Senators’ triumph over the New Jersey Devils remains one of the most memorable moments in NHL playoff history. It was a true David and Goliath story, with the underdogs toppling the reigning champions. This victory not only showcased the talent and determination of the Senators but also proved to the hockey world that anything can happen in the playoffs.

The Senators’ playoff run did not end there. They went on to face the Buffalo Sabres in the following round, ultimately falling short of advancing to the conference finals. Nevertheless, their remarkable series win against the New Jersey Devils remains a cherished moment in Senators’ history.

the Ottawa Senators’ elimination of the Stanley Cup champions New Jersey Devils from the playoffs on April 13, 1996, was a significant event in NHL history. It showcased the Senators’ resilience, determination, and ability to overcome the odds. This underdog victory will forever be etched in the memories of hockey fans and serve as a reminder that anything is possible in the world of sports.