Auston Watson shows tremendous support for rookie - who's mistake in his first game - lost the game

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Ryan
April 8, 2022 (4:26 PM)

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When you're a rookie, you're scared, anxious, excited and just all over the place with emotions. Unfortunately for this Ottawa Senators rookie he will always remember his first NHL game.

Cole Reinhardt was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the 6th round back in 2020 out of the WHL and has played the last 2 seasons in the AHL. In his first NHL game last night Reinhardt took a hooking penalty with the game tied at 2, which resulted in a Ryan Johansen game winning goal.

Going through his head was definitely thoughts like '' I blew it, my one chance and I blew it, they'll never want me back.'' Reinhardt was definitely feeling horrible for costing the team the game, we saw veteran Auston Watson step up and show some amazing leadership for the rookie. You could tell he was not happy with himself and Watson gave him a few pats on the back and some words of wisdom and encouragement. A slight smile from Watson, you can definitely tell the words "we've all done it" or some of the sorts were being said.

A quote from Everyday Sens:

There should be no ill feelings towards Reinhardt for that one. It wasn't a lazy hook; he was trying to be strong on the stick check and got tied up in the hands.

Austin Watson supporting an upset Cole Reinhardt after his late penalty resulted in Nashville's game-winning goal.

There should be no ill feelings towards Reinhardt for that one. It wasn't a lazy hook; he was trying to be strong on the stick check and got tied up in the hands. pic.twitter.com/dfchyo8bwj� Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) April 8, 2022

Fans are definitely still in his corner!

Cole Reinhardt should hold his head high. Had a real good NHL debut! Penalties/mistakes happen. Head high, young fella. Go and bag yourself a Calder Cup with the guys in Belleville!#fortheB #BSens #Sens #GoSensGo� Tküda (@SaidCuda) April 8, 2022