Daniel Alfredsson 4 Points Shy Of 1,111; What Does The Future Hold For The Captain?
As the Senators head into the final weekend of the season, there seems to be less speculation as to the future of the Captain that there was last year at this time. I think that might be due to the fact that popular opinion dictates that Daniel Alfredsson wouldn’t want to go out with a season like the Senators have gone through. While the top end offensive numbers might not be there this season, there is no arguing the fact that on many nights, he was the Senators best forward and is still the glue that holds the team together. His production was very close to that of fellow 40-something Teemu Selanne, and there is no arguing the fact that Alfredsson can still play the game.
Apr 16, 2013; Ottawa, ON, CAN; Ottawa Senators right wing
Daniel Alfredsson(11) and Carolina Hurricanes centre
Jordan Staal(11) head up the ice in the third period at Scotiabank Place. The Senators defeated the Hurricanes 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports
That being said, the Captain is merely 4 points shy of reaching the 1, 111 point mark. While it might not be a traditional milestone by many standards, the fact that Alfie is symbolic with the #11 makes it a milestone that Sens fans can get behind. Will Alfredsson get the chance to reach that number this season? It depends on whether or not the game against Boston means something in terms of Ottawa’s place in the standings. If the game doesn’t matter, then the Senators would be foolish to make him take an extra road trip to Boston for a back-to-back situation just three days before the playoffs. Four points in two games would be a reachable target, while getting four points against the Flyers might be too much to ask.
Although with a little help from his Swedish mates, most notably the recently returned Erik Karlsson, I wouldn’t put anything past him.
I have little doubt in my mind that Alfredsson will be back for another year, but just in case, it would be nice for him to end this season with 1,111 regular season points.