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Not Happy: Senators Release Statement About Alfredsson Joining “Arch Rival”
The Ottawa Senators are not happy that Daniel Alfredsson has chosen to join the Toronto Maple Leafs, but their statement is pretty classy.
The Ottawa Senators are not happy about the decision by Daniel Alfredsson to leave their organization and join an arch-rival in the Toronto Maple Leafs. Still, the franchise is taking the high road and hoping that one of the greatest icons in their team’s history will one day return.
Owner Michael Andlauer released the following statement:
“One of the first moves we made after taking over the franchise was bringing Daniel Alfredsson back into the fold as an assistant coach in December of 2023. I quickly learned that Alfie embodied all the characteristics of what it meant to be an Ottawa Senator. While I wish he wasn’t joining an arch rival, Alfie is forever an Ottawa Senator and the door will always be open for his return. He has done so much for our organization and community and he has my full respect.”
The reactions to the statement are all over the map. Some are impressed with the team’s ability to be so classy. Others want to know what happened. After all, one would have to assume there was a reason for the split, at least beyond the fact that it was a promotion.
Related: Shocking Twist: Maple Leafs Add 3 Coaches, Including Senators Icon
“Such a class act. I’m glad he’s the owner of our Ottawa Senators,” wrote one fan. Another said, “I don’t give a Sh—. What happened? Would like to know details. Alfie was a childhood icon for me. To go to Toronto. F- you, your family and my you crash and burn in that city.”
Clearly, these takes are quite the polar opposite and the latter is hopefully one that is not echoed by other fans, many of whom are heartbroken at the news. A middle-of-the-road response included, “To the folks commenting he doesn’t deserve his banner or he’s a snake after giving 17 of his 18 seasons as a player to the Senators, take a deep breath and step back. He’s the greatest Senator of all time Let the guy take a job he’s passionate about at this point.” Maybe that’s all that’s happening here.
Alfredsson is going to an organization that is clearly taking steps to try and get better. They’ve brought in new management and made changes to a good chunk of the roster. He’ll get a chance to work alongside fellow Swede Mats Sundin. Perhaps it was simply time for a change and a chance to take on a new challenge.
If he’s looking to get into head coaching, moving up a step will help that endeavor.
Next: Pat Verbeek Has Lost Control of the Ducks: The Carlsson Offer Sheet Fallout
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