The Ottawa Senators will start Pascal Leclaire in goal against the Carolina Hurricanes Thursday night, further solidifying his spot as the team’s No. 1 goaltender.

Coach Cory Clouston called Leclaire “our best player” this season and went back on a suggestion that backup Brian Elliott would start one of the next two games.

Clouston said there was “absolutely” a chance Leclaire would be right back between the pipes against Montreal Saturday night if he played well against Carolina.

Coming off a lousy campaign last season, Leclaire has apparently re-established himself as the go-to guy for the Senators.

He could benefit from facing a tired squad that opened its season in Finland last week, although Carolina is undefeated after sweeping both overseas contests against the Minnesota Wild.

The Senators (0-2-1) are still seeking their first win of the season.

Winger Alex Kovalev missed practice but will suit up for the game.