Message is clear for Sens: It’s playoffs or bust

Before the Senators headed to the Motor City, Bryan Murray sent a message to his team: Put the pedal to the metal to get back into a playoff spot.

Yes, the Senators GM was trying to improve the club’s defence by acquiring Dion Phaneuf from the Toronto Maple Leafs in a nine-player deal Tuesday, but Murray was also showing faith in the fact his club can close the fourpoint gap that exists between them and a playoff spot.

“I think we’ve pushed the limit a little bit, by putting ourselves in the situation we’re in. We’ve got to fight ourselves through a few loopholes, but at the same time I think we’re good enough to make the playoffs,” Senators captain Erik Karlsson said Tuesday.

“We have a fair chance of making the playoffs. We’re going to have to win a lot of games in order to do so, but again it’s not something we haven’t done before and we put this upon ourselves and I think Dion is going to come in and give us that extra push and he’s going to make us a better hockey team.”

Coach Dave Cameron said adding Phaneuf gives him options on the blue-line.

“The biggest difference it’s going to give you on the ice is you’re adding a real good player and you’re slotting other guys into where you think they’re best suited. That’s what you’re doing. You’re adding a talented player. That’s huge,” said Cameron.

Murray said he hopes people are pleased with the deal because he believes it can help the team. He sees that and so does owner Eugene Melnyk.

“This solidifies where we’re going and I hope it sends a message to our group that we’re trying to win here,” said Murray. “(Melnyk’s) happy today. I’m happy today. Hopefully, Dion is and one or two people in the media might be happy for us.”

This solidifies where we’re going and I hope it sends a message to our group that we’re trying to win here.

GM BRYAN MURRAY