Ottawa's PWHL team fell to the Boston Fleet 3-2 in a shootout on Sunday, marking the third consecutive game for Ottawa that has gone to the dramatic tiebreaker format — and the third time they've come up short.
Another Game, Another Shootout
For the third time in a row, Ottawa couldn't close out a game in regulation or overtime, leaving their fate to the shootout — and once again, Boston had the edge. The Fleet potted the decisive goal to take the extra point, leaving Ottawa with just one point from what could have been a two-point night.
Shootoouts are equal parts skill and nerves, and while Ottawa has been competitive enough to push games to that stage, they haven't been able to crack the code when it counts most. Three straight shootout losses is a tough pill to swallow for any team, let alone one competing in the tight PWHL standings.
The Bigger Picture
The PWHL — now in its second season — has been a massive hit with Ottawa hockey fans, who have shown up in droves to support women's professional hockey in the capital. The passion in the building has been undeniable, and Ottawa's roster has given fans plenty to cheer about even in tight losses like this one.
But results matter, and the shootout skid is something the coaching staff will be looking to address. Whether it's shooter selection, goaltending in the tiebreaker, or simply the randomness of the format, Ottawa needs to find a way to start converting.
What's at Stake
With the PWHL regular season ticking along, every point is precious. The league's tight structure means that a couple of extra points from shootout wins — rather than losses — could be the difference between a home playoff game and hitting the road. Ottawa fans are hungry for a deep postseason run, and the team has the talent to make it happen.
Expect the coaching staff to put extra time into shootout prep in practice this week. The good news: two regulation points in the standings is still two points, and Ottawa is proving they can hang with one of the league's top clubs.
Keep the Faith
Three shootout losses in a row stings, but it also shows Ottawa is competitive every single night — they're not getting blown out, they're not giving up. They're taking elite teams to the wire. That's something to build on.
Ottawa hockey fans have waited a long time for a women's pro team to call their own. This group is worth cheering for, shootout woes and all. The bounce will come.
Source: PWHL via Google News
