(Ottawa) When Daniel Alfredsson arrived in Ottawa in the fall of 1995, the then 22-year-old player never thought he would one day find himself in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Posted at 6:32 p.m.
The Swede persevered and his highly distinguished career will culminate with his induction into the Pantheon on November 14.
Alfredsson will be inducted alongside compatriots Daniel and Henrik Sedin and goalkeeper Roberto Luongo, among others.
“It’s a huge honour,” said Alfredsson, who spoke to Ottawa media on Tuesday prior to his induction. It is certainly a recognition. »
Alfredsson recalls that on his first Christmas with Ottawa, he figured he had about five more months in Canada until the season was over and he could go home.
At that time, the Senators were an organization in disarray.
Despite the difficulties of the first year, Alfredsson won the Calder Trophy.
“The first year, I was trying to carve out a place for myself on the team, without knowing much about the NHL. Finding myself here 27 years later is surreal, because I thought [que cela durerait] two, three years, if all goes well. »
Alfredsson was chosen 133e in 1994, in the sixth round. Few saw potential in him and even John Ferguson, the scout who highly recommended him, probably didn’t know the impact the young forward would have on the organization.
Now 49, Alfredsson has spent 18 seasons in the NHL, including 17 with the Senators. He captained the team from 1999 to 2013.
Although he never won a Stanley Cup, Alfredsson helped Ottawa reach the playoffs for 11 consecutive seasons, starting in 1997.
His 426 goals, 682 assists and 1,108 points are all franchise records.
Alfredsson hasn’t always been the most talented player on the Senators roster, but you could never argue with his efforts.
“I’ve always prided myself on trying to give my best and doing whatever I can to help the team win,” Alfredsson said. I was good at working hard. It wasn’t easy, but I got good at it. »
A contract dispute in the summer of 2013 saw him sign with Detroit as a free agent. He only played one season with the Wings due to recurring back problems.
Alfredsson then signed a one-day contract with Ottawa to retire as a Senators player. Still, there was friction between him and owner Eugene Melnyk in the years that followed.
While other former players took on different roles, Alfredsson was noticeably absent.
Melnyk passed away in March this year, and the relationship with the organization now appears to be on the mend.
“If I want to go watch practice or take my kids to watch practice, I’m welcome,” Alfredsson said.
“That’s what matters most. I truly appreciate it. It is important for me to have a good relationship with the club. »