As the offseason remains in full swing and the majority of free agents have found new homes, hockey fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the return of the NHL season in October. Here at Last Word on Hockey, we have been delving into various rankings and lists to fill the hockey void during the scorching hot summer months. From the best players by number for different teams to top Canadians by position, our writers have been hard at work compiling exciting content.
In honor of the upcoming 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, we are taking a look at the Ottawa Senators’ all-time starting lineups based on player nationality. Other teams, such as the Carolina Hurricanes and the Pittsburgh Penguins, have also started this series, highlighting the diverse and talented rosters that NHL franchises have boasted over the years.
The Ottawa Senators All-Time Best Swedish Players
When it comes to Swedish talent, Daniel Alfredsson stands out as a true legend for the Ottawa Senators. A two-time 40-goal scorer with the Sens, Alfredsson displayed remarkable consistency and durability throughout his career. His leadership during important postseason runs, including the 2007 Stanley Cup Final, solidified his place in Senators history. Playing alongside Jason Spezza and Dany Heatley, Alfredsson was able to extend his peak performance years, amassing impressive franchise-leading stats over his 17 NHL seasons with 1178 regular season games played.
Mika Zibanejad, another Swedish standout, earned a spot on the Senators’ best Swedish players starting lineup. Despite a relatively short tenure with the team, Zibanejad’s talent was evident early on, contributing to the team’s success with back-to-back 20-goal seasons. His move to the New York Rangers further solidified his status as a top Swedish centre in the league.
Magnus Arvedson, known for his reliability and playoff contributions, rounds out the Senators’ best Swedish starting lineup on the wing. With six seasons in Ottawa, Arvedson left a lasting impact with 210 points in 393 games and a consistent presence in the postseason.
The Best Among Ottawa Senators Swedish Players Daniel Alfredsson
Erik Brannstrom, affectionately nicknamed the ‘Branchise,’ made his mark on the Senators’ roster despite recently departing the team. Acquired in a blockbuster trade involving Mark Stone and the Vegas Golden Knights, Brannstrom’s potential was always viewed highly by the organization. Although his time in Ottawa may have left fans wanting more, his 266 games with the club earned him a spot on the best Swedish players list for the Senators.
When it comes to defensemen, Erik Karlsson stands out as the most skilled player to have worn the Senators jersey. With a playing style that few can match, Karlsson’s impact on the ice solidified his place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats, rivaling only Zdeno Chara for the title of best defenseman in Senators history.
As the countdown to the new season begins, fans can look back on these standout Swedish players who have left their mark on the Ottawa Senators franchise, inspiring future generations of hockey talent to come.