The Sens have been lousy lately. They've had two decent efforts in their last seven games. And unlike their struggles earlier in the season, they can't blame poor goaltending for their problems. Since they traded for Petr Bondra, they've won 7 games and lost 9.

Granted, they've have a brutal March schedule but that doesn't explain their horrible effort against a tired Carolina team on Saturday night. But then again, if shoddy goaltending hadn't cost them numerous games earlier in the season, they'd be sitting on the top of the Eastern Conference and their efforts could be considering coasting to the playoffs. Instead, they're squandering a chance at not only a conference or division title but also home ice advantage in the first round.

While Lalime has looked better as of late (I'll ignore the two goals he gave the Bruins last night since those can be overlooked as random errors as opposed to letting in soft shots), there is still plenty of concern about goaltending. Martin Prusek looked to be getting a chance as the starter but he lost his chance due to back troubles.

Right now expectations are so low in Ottawa that many are concerned about getting bounced out in the first round, especially if the Sens go up against their evil nemesis from Toronto.