The Senators played their deliberate, defensive style throughout much of Game 1 after they took a 1-0 lead with 5:28 remaining in the first period. If the Penguins had scored first, they could have forced the Senators to open their game, which would play into the Penguins' hands.
The Penguins and Senators each will look to score early to dictate the action and tilt the ice in their favor.
"I think getting the first goal is definitely important," Penguins defenseman Ian Cole said. "It might change the game plan a little bit. If they have the lead, they can sit back and be more passive."