Over the course of his 17 years here in Ottawa, Daniel Alfredsson made an impression.
With his teammates, with the organization, with the fans and with the community he called home. He was and continues to be one of the truly great ambassadors of the game and will go down as the most popular sports figure in the history of this city.
And on Sunday night, Sens fans have an opportunity to say thanks.
You would be hard pressed to come up with a memorable moment in the history of this team that didn’t have #11 at the centre. His legacy in the red, black and gold is filled with moments that fans in this city will never forget. When he left Ottawa this summer, under extremely unfortunate circumstances, he closed the book on a legendary career in the Nation’s Capital. While there was clearly animosity between the two sides this summer, it will not stop the franchise from retiring his number when Alfie’s playing days are done. And while some have suggested that the chances of him returning to Ottawa after his career are non-existent, I still think it’s a relationship that can be mended at some point.
If you’re there on Sunday night, make sure you let Alfie know just how much he meant to this city. The team is asking that fans arrive early as their will be a video tribute following the National anthems. It is a chance for fans to show their appreciation. I’m sure there will be a few misinformed fans that take that opportunity to boo but I’m confident that Sens fans will handle themselves with class.
You can be mad that he is gone. Be frustrated about the way he left. But fans should never forget what Daniel Alfredsson did for this team over the years.
Wear your Alfie jersey. Chant his name. Let’s give him the warm welcome he deserves.
