When Reputations Take A Hit – Daniel Alfredsson And The Ottawa Senators

After hearing Daniel Alfredsson‘s press conference earlier today, I now think all people would have been better off if he had left town and said nothing after all.

Yes, Eugene Melnyk threw Alfie under the bus on Saturday in the Ottawa Citizen, but the damage Alfie did to both his own and the reputation of the Ottawa Senators will have far-reaching implications for both sides.

In the end, it was all about money.  Alfredsson taking less for years and wanting more at the end than he was worth.  Melnyk for not realizing that and not paying him a premium for his years of service.

Alfredsson showed his colors to be more about the money, and less about the desire to win a Cup.

Alfie’s press conference resulted in a rebuttal from Bryan Murray and then one from J.P. Barry, Alfredsson’s agent.

When the dust settles, all parties will be hurt in terms of reputation and also in more concrete ways.

Apr 27, 2013; Ottawa, ON, CAN; Ottawa Senators right wing Daniel Alfredsson (11) controls the puck in the third period against the Philadelphia Flyers at Scotiabank Place. The Flyers defeated the Senators 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports

On July 5th, Murray spoke to reporters about Ottawa still being a “destination” for NHL players, and with the Alfredsson accusation that the club went back on an alleged promise to the star, other players will take note of that and it will definitely be a consideration when players who have options are investigating them.

From Alfredsson’s standpoint, his shots fired on his way out could result in some really hard feelings from Murray and Melnyk, and for the first time since this whole fiasco started, I question whether his jersey will indeed be retired any time soon.

All in all, I was hoping that the presser would bring closure to the situation, but all it has served to do is re-open month-old wounds.  The reputation of all involved have taken a hit today, both player and team.