The Ottawa Senators, a proud franchise in the National Hockey League (NHL), carry a rich history and a passionate fanbase that spans generations. While their red, black, and gold jerseys and the centurion logo are familiar sights, there are hidden details and intriguing stories that even the most dedicated fans might not be aware of.
Let’s delve into 15 lesser-known facts that offer a fresh perspective on this beloved team.
15 Little-Known Facts:
- A Tale of Two Teams: The current Ottawa Senators are not the first NHL team to bear the name. The original Senators franchise, founded in 1883, won 11 Stanley Cups before folding in 1934.
- The Rebirth: The modern Senators were established in 1992 as an expansion team, marking the return of NHL hockey to Ottawa after a 58-year hiatus.
- “The Pizza Line”: In the late 1990s, the Senators’ top line of Alexei Yashin, Daniel Alfredsson, and Alexandre Daigle was nicknamed “The Pizza Line” due to a local pizza promotion that offered a free pizza for every goal they scored.
- The Hamburglar: Goaltender Andrew Hammond earned the nickname “The Hamburglar” during his breakout season in 2014-15, stealing wins for the team and sparking a playoff run.
- Daniel Alfredsson’s Legacy: Daniel Alfredsson, a Swedish icon, is the franchise’s all-time leader in goals, assists, points, and games played.
- The 2007 Stanley Cup Finals Run: The Senators reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2007 but fell short, losing to the Anaheim Ducks in five games.
- The Battle of Ontario: The Senators share a fierce rivalry with the Toronto Maple Leafs, known as the “Battle of Ontario,” one of the most heated rivalries in Canadian hockey.
- The “Sens Mile” Tradition: During playoff runs, Senators fans celebrate on “Sens Mile,” a stretch of Elgin Street known for its bars and restaurants, creating a festive atmosphere.
- The “Sens Army” Fanbase: The “Sens Army” is a passionate and dedicated fanbase that is known for its unwavering support of the team through thick and thin.
- Chris Neil’s Enforcer Legacy: Chris Neil, a fan favorite, was known for his toughness and physical play, embodying the role of an enforcer during his 15 seasons with the Senators.
- The CTC’s Unique Atmosphere: The Canadian Tire Centre (formerly known as the Corel Centre and Scotiabank Place), the Senators’ home arena, is known for its unique atmosphere and passionate fans.
- The “Whiteout” Tradition: During playoff games, Senators fans create a “whiteout” by wearing white clothing, a tradition inspired by the Winnipeg Jets.
- The 2D Logo Controversy: In 2007, the Senators introduced a new 2D logo, a departure from their classic centurion logo, which sparked debate among fans.
- Erik Karlsson’s Norris Trophies: Erik Karlsson, a dynamic defenseman, won two Norris Trophies as the NHL’s best defenseman while playing for the Senators.
- The Relocation Saga: In the early 2000s, the Senators faced financial difficulties and rumors of relocation, but a dedicated group of local investors saved the team and kept them in Ottawa.
Conclusion:
The Ottawa Senators are a team with a rich history, a passionate fanbase, and a bright future. Their resilience, community spirit, and commitment to the game make them a beloved franchise in the NHL. Whether you’re a lifelong Sens fan or simply appreciate the sport, these little-known facts offer a glimpse into the team’s extraordinary journey.
Chris Robinson