The Sens struggled early, spending portions of the first period trapped in their own zone and allowing the Mammoth to generate several high‑danger opportunities. Their shot totals reflected the pressure, as they were outshot both at even strength and overall. Despite the rough start, the team managed to rebound before the period ended, setting up a potentially pivotal shift in momentum for the remainder of the game.

At times during the first period, the Sens were hemmed in their own end and gave up high danger chances to the Mammoth. They were outshot 12-5 at 5-on-5 and 14-7 overall but came out of the period ...