As the off-season buzz intensifies with many free agents finding new homes, hockey fans around the world eagerly await the start of the new season. At Last Word on Hockey, we are diving deep into some interesting rankings during this summer break. From the best players by number for various teams to the top Canadians by position, our writers have been busy exploring different facets of the game. In a nod to the upcoming 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, we are taking a look at all-time starting lineups based on nationality, starting with the Ottawa Senators. And we are not alone in this endeavor, as other teams like the Carolina Hurricanes and the Pittsburgh Penguins have also joined in on the fun.
The Ottawa Senators’ best Canadian starting lineup showcases some of the most iconic players in franchise history. Dany Heatley, affectionately known as “The Heater,” stands out as one of the top Canadian wingers to ever don the Senators jersey. With his remarkable offensive skills and contributions to the Sens’ playoff runs in 2006 and 2007, Heatley earned his spot on this list. Teaming up with Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson on the infamous “Pizza Line,” Heatley became part of the most formidable trio in Sens history, amassing a total of 585 points in the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons.
During his four-season stint with the Senators, Heatley delivered his best performances, setting new standards for goal-scoring in the franchise. His consistent offensive output made him a dominant force on the ice, especially in the playoffs, where he tallied 35 points in 34 career games. With 39 or more goals in six out of seven seasons between 2002 and 2010, Heatley solidified his reputation as one of the premier goal-scorers of his generation.
Jason Spezza, another key member of the Senators’ best Canadian lineup, brought his playmaking skills and offensive prowess to Ottawa, creating magic on the ice alongside Heatley and Alfredsson. With 251 goals and 436 assists in 686 games with the Sens, Spezza made his mark as a top-tier centre in Canadian hockey. His playoff performances, including leading the 2007 playoffs in assists and points, further solidified his legacy in Ottawa. Despite facing setbacks in his later years, Spezza’s consistency and leadership on successful Sens teams earned him a place among the all-time great Canadian forwards in franchise history.
In the role of a long-time Sens veteran on the list, Mike Fisher rounds out the lineup with his hard work, speed, and scoring capabilities. Fisher, a mainstay in Ottawa for 11 seasons, may not have posted eye-popping numbers, but his dedication to the team and contributions in key moments made him a fan favorite. With 348 points in 675 games and reliable play in the playoffs, Fisher’s presence on the wing adds depth and experience to the Senators’ Canadian starting lineup. His versatility and positive impact both on and off the ice make him a worthy inclusion in this esteemed group of Ottawa Senators greats.
As we eagerly anticipate the start of the new season, reflecting on the rich history and standout performances of these Canadian stars reminds us of the passion and excitement that hockey brings to fans around the world. The legacy of these players, etched in the annals of Senators history, serves as a testament to their dedication and skill on the ice. With October fast approaching, hockey enthusiasts everywhere are counting down the days until the puck drops once again, igniting the thrill of the game and the camaraderie it fosters among fans and players alike.
