During this series, we take a look back at players who have formed the history of the Ottawa Senators. Here, we analyse the impact of Alexei Yashin.
A player who will always go down in Ottawa Senators folklore, their first draft pick (1992) since returning to the city. Taken second overall, the Russian quickly became a revelation in the capital. Remaining in Russia for his first season, joining up for the 1993/94 season to debut with Alexandre Daigle.
A standout highlight from his rookie season being that of a hattrick against the Edmonton Oilers on the third of November. The first epitomising his play, the ability to slow the play down to his speed whilst taking defenders out of position allowing him to find his shooting space.
Yashin’s debut season was an impressive one, totalling 79 points in 83 games. Blowing Daigle’s 51 point effort out of the window. Such an effort from a rookie was bound to earn him Calder contention, it did. Unfortunately, a certain Martin Brodeur was to snatch the trophy.