Sens bank on Kelly’s experience in Game 7

Guy Boucher wanted all the experience he could get for Game 7, so he turned to veteran centre Chris Kelly on Thursday night.

As the Ottawa Senators attempted to close out the Eastern Conference final against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena, the coach inserted the 36-year-old Kelly into the lineup in place of rookie centre Colin White, who suited up in Game 6.

Kelly, who hasn’t played since April 21 against the Boston Bruins in the first round of the playoffs, was ready and waiting. Boucher chose to dress Kelly ahead of winger Tommy Wingels, who was a healthy scratch.

“If I’m in, great. If not, I want the team to succeed and do well,” Kelly said after the morning skate.

Kelly said he has kept a positive outlook while sitting.

“It’s important to stay positive and make sure you’re part of the group. There’s times in your career that aren’t ideal or maybe they’re harder than others, but you’re still part of the group and part of the team,” Kelly said. “I’ve had the luxury of seeing how different players have handled different situations and learned from them.”

Boucher said Kelly has been a pro, and that’s why the Senators brought him in.

“The reason why we signed him is his leadership and the type of person that he is. He’s Mr. Integrity — that’s what he is,” Boucher added. “I hated having him against me in a seventh game against Boston (in 2011), and he’s one of those guys who was there. He’s been a total professional whether he played or didn’t play.

“It’s probably been my toughest decision all year long to keep him out. I feel definitely today is one of those games he could go in and make a contribution.”