The set-up
The Sens (11-20-3) saw a 2-0 third period lead disappear against Washington Saturday but did collect a point in a 3-2 overtime loss.
Columbus (18-19-1) lost 5-2 at home to Pittsburgh Friday night and are 3-6-0 in January.
Ottawa's power play has yet to score on this road trip (0-for-5) but they still rank 18th in the league in that category at 19.1 per cent.
The Blue Jackets have the fifth worst power play in the NHL at 15.3 per cent and since Jan. 1, they've only converted eight per cent of the time. In that same time frame, they've given up 4.33 goals per game.
The Senators' penalty kill continues to impress as since the New Year they are tied for ninth in the league at 83.3 per cent in that category.
With 46 third period goals, the Blue Jackets sit ninth in the NHL in that category. However, both teams have conceded 50 third period goals this year, the fifth most in the league.
Columbus has seen eight games this season go to overtime or a shootout and have only failed to collect the two points on one occasion.
Roster notes
With a few players banged up, Sens head coach D.J. Smith confirmed there will be changes to his lineup tonight.
Anton Forsberg will start in goal for the Sens. The Swede is 6-6-1 this season with a .907 save percentage in 16 games. It'll be just his second career start against the Blue Jackets.
Previous history
In 32 previous meetings, the Sens have gone 15-11-4 with two ties all-time against the Blue Jackets. On the road, Ottawa have collected points in eight of their 16 games (six wins) in Columbus.
As a Senator, Chris Tierney has three assists in six games against Columbus and over the duration of his career, has notched five helpers in 12 games.
The Blue Jackets will visit Ottawa March 16.
Who to watch
Alex Formenton's highlight reel assist Saturday night gave him points in back-to-back games on this road trip. The speedy winger has 11 points (three goals) in his last 11 games, and six in his last five, as he continues to be a threat in all situations. Over those 11 contests, Formenton has tallied four multi-point games.
The Barrie native has averaged 13:51 a night this season, with 1:36 of that coming on the penalty kill. His two shorthanded goals this season leads the Sens and sits in a tie for third in the NHL.
Where to watch
Sunday's game can be seen live on TSN5 and TVAS at 6 p.m. Fans can also tune into the radio call on TSN 1200 and Unique FM 94,5.
