OTTAWA | In another era, Derick Brassard did not jump when he was given the mission to pivot the first line of his team.
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He did so in his fine seasons with the Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers and Ottawa Senators from 2010-11 to 2017-18.
For his return to Ottawa this season, Brassard would not have bet on such a scenario.
Invited to the Senators camp, the 35-year-old Quebecer had the modest goal of coming out with a contract. He won his bet. On October 10, he signed a one-year contract at the minimum wage of $750,000.
A little over two months later, Brassard will find himself with a much more important role with the Sens. In the absence of centers Joshua Norris and Tim Stützle, he climbed the team’s hierarchy to become the first center alongside captain Brady Tkachuk and Claude Giroux.
“I took a picture this morning of the board, he replied with a smile a few hours before the game against the Canadiens at the Canadian Tire Centre. They signed me for this reason, they wanted to protect themselves in case of injuries. Norris was injured early in the season. You don’t want to see this. We now have four or five injured attackers. It gives opportunities to other guys.
“My role is now bigger, but I don’t put any pressure on myself. I will use my experience and give the puck to my wingers. I would like to produce offensively, but also to play well defensively. »
Respect
Before the visit of the CH in the national capital, Brassard had participated in 20 games, obtaining eight points (4 goals, 4 assists). Sidelined for the first five games of the season, he joined the training after the injury to Norris.
Unhappy with his fate at the end of the season last year with the Edmonton Oilers, Brassard has found his smile with the Sens.
“In Philadelphia, I had a role last year, but not in Edmonton. Here with the Senators, I find it clear from the beginning. I have a good relationship with the coaches and I know what to expect. I feel like I’m respected and that’s what you’re looking for as a hockey player. »
“I played with Derick for the Flyers and I find it easy to play with him,” noted Giroux. He makes good plays and he is responsible defensively. He can also win big faceoffs and play on special teams. »
Brassard has rolled its bump everywhere in recent seasons. Since the 2017-2018 season, he has worn the jersey of the Senators, Penguins, Panthers, Avalanche, Islanders, Coyotes, Flyers, Oilers and even that of the Senators.
In total, the Blue Jackets’ 2006 first-round pick has played for ten teams in the NHL.