McElhinney gets last chance in net By DON BRENNAN, QMI Agency

Sens goalie Curtis McElhinney will start against his fomer team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, Tuesday night. Ottawa Sun file photo

TAMPA — In need of a contract for next season, Curtis McElhinney is about to get what could be his last chance to impress Senators brass.

McElhinney will start in goal when Ottawa takes on the Tampa Bay Lightning Tuesday night at St. Pete Times Forum, coach Cory Clouston announced after the team’s morning meeting at the rink.

McElhinney, who was claimed off waivers from the Bolts at the trade deadline but never played a game for them, has defeated Tampa twice in the past month.

In 3-2 and 2-1 victories, he has made 69 saves.

“He has played very well against them,” Clouston said in explaining his goaltending decision. “We don’t have any more back-to-backs, from here on in. If we’re looking to give him a start, this is the perfect opportunity.

“This is our fourth game in six nights. We’ve had a lot of travel. (Craig Anderson) has had a couple of tough games, as far as a lot of work. Good time to give him a rest and give him the next night. This might be the only time we can get Curtis in, from here on in. He may get another start, but we just thought it was a real good time for it.”

The Senators have no other lineup changes against the Bolts, who are starting Dwayne Roloson in goal. Daniel Alfredsson skated with Anderson Tuesday, which is a good sign as it was the day after his first practice with the team. But he’ll miss his 23rd game with a back injury.

don.brennan@sunmedia.ca