Ottawa Senators' forward Clarke MacArthur says his team should only focus on its defence after an 8-4 blowout loss to the New York Rangers, and they should have pride in finishing the season on a strong note.

The Senators were blown out in their biggest game of the season on Tuesday evening at the Canadian Tire Centre by the team they were chasing for the eighth and final playoff spot.

Ottawa was leading 2-1 in the second period, but broke down after giving up two quick goals. New York ended that period leading 5-2, then went ahead 7-3 in the third.

The Senators have now given up the second-most goals in the National Hockey League — only the New York Islanders have given up more.

Watch the video link above for MacArthur's blunt and honest assessment of his team's play and how they should approach the final stretch.