(Ottawa) Wade Redden was a mainstay of the Ottawa Senators defensive squad for 11 years and for his efforts, the crowd favorite became the first player to be inducted into the organization’s Ring of Honor .
Redden first came to Ottawa at the age of 19 hoping to fulfill a childhood dream of playing in the National Hockey League, and he left behind a legacy on the ice, but also outside the rink.
Fans greeted Redden with a rousing ovation during a pre-game ceremony on Monday.
“It’s a really, really special feeling to be recognized,” Redden said. “I look back on my years in Ottawa and they were the best of my career and a very special part of my life. »
“Those were special years because of the teams we had, the teammates I had and the memories we made. »
Redden was drafted second overall by the New York Islanders in 1995, but was traded to the Senators when the second-round pick Bryan Berard refused to sign with Ottawa.
Redden, an elegant skater, paid tribute to Lance Pitlick, his first blue line partner, who supported him during his rookie season during which he appeared in all 82 games for his team.
Redden also credited the support he received from defenseman Jason York and veteran teammates like Randy Cunneyworth and Curtis Lescyshyn. Redden noted that it would take too long to name all the players who impacted his career.
A native of Lloydminster, Sask., Redden appeared in 838 games with the Senators, which ranks him fourth in team history, behind Chris Phillips (1,179), Daniel Alfredsson (1,178) and Chris Neil (1,026). ).
These three players were all present for the tribute to Redden.