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Sliding Senators look to rebound against Thrashers

Dec 3, 2008 - 1:41 PM Atlanta (8-13-3) at Ottawa (8-10-4) 7:00 p.m. EST

OTTAWA (Ticker) -- The Ottawa Senators appeared to be on the right track after forging back-to-back wins following a six-game losing streak. But, after enduring another dismal loss, the Senators are still searching for answers.

Ottawa tries to avoid its eighth setback in the last 10 games on Wednesday when they host the struggling Atlanta Thrashers.

The Senators have made the playoffs each of the last 11 seasons, but thus far have not looked like a team destined to return to the postseason.

After a 0-4-2 stretch in the middle of November, Ottawa rebounded with two wins against the New York Rangers and Toronto Maple Leafs. However, the Senators closed the month on Saturday by dropping a 4-2 decision to the New York Islanders, who are in last place in the Atlantic Division.

Despite finishing second in the NHL with 261 goals last season, the Senators have struggled to find the back of the net this campaign. Ottawa's offense second to last, averaging 2.32 goals per game and has registered a league-low 51 total tallies.

The Senators big three of Jason Spezza, Dany Heatley and Daniel Alfredsson should be able to get something going against the Thrashers, who lead the NHL with 87 goals allowed.

After erasing a 3-0 deficit in the third period, Atlanta endured a 5-4 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday.

The Thrashers are 1-6-1 in their last eight contests after putting together a five-game win streak.