Senators hoping Duchene, Ryan can create another top line

The Ottawa Senators are set to make another key addition to the lineup, and spread out the offense as a result.

After acquiring Matt Duchene from the Colorado Avalanche on Nov. 5, the club will welcome Bobby Ryan back for Thursday's game against Pittsburgh.

The winger has missed the past three weeks with a broken finger, and head coach Guy Boucher envisions the formation of a new dynamic duo upon Ryan's return.

"If we're able to have Duchene and Bobby work, we can end up with two first lines," Boucher said, per Ian Mendes of TSN. "That would be a one-two punch that the top teams have."

Ryan had been skating on the top line with Derick Brassard and Mark Stone prior to the injury, but here's the new-look top six based on Wednesday's practice lines:

• Mike Hoffman - Derick Brassard - Mark Stone
• Ryan Dzingel - Matt Duchene - Bobby Ryan

Ryan recorded six assists and 12 shots in eight games to begin the season.

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