Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #21 – Milan Michalek
The Ottawa Senators have just completed their 25th year in the NHL. However, due to the 04-05 lockout they are actually about to enter their 25th season. So, I thought what better time to recognize the 25 greatest Senators of all time. This list won’t be based on pure talent, but rather the skill, impact, and durability of each player.
If you the previous post in the series here you go!
Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #22 – Bobby Ryan
Now without further ado the 21st greatest player in Ottawa Senators history….
#21 Milan Michalek
Milan Michalek came to the Ottawa Senators times at a time of transition for the franchise. Additionally he came during one of the biggest controversies in Sens’ history. Michalek was the biggest part of the package the Sens got in return for Dany Heatley. Famously Heatley had requested a trade from the team after having many disagreements with Head Coach Cory Clouston. As the biggest piece in the return for Heatley, Michalek was unfairly compared to him.
Although initially compared to Heatley, Michalek quickly got out of his shadow and became a fan favourite. He never brought the firepower that Heatley was capable of but gave Ottawa consistent secondary scoring. Most seasons he would finish between 35-40 points. However, he did have one standout season where he had 35 goals and 60 points. He was even selected for the all-star game that year.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Thomas Chabot 2017-2018 Season Preview
In 412 games with the Ottawa Senators, Milan Michalek brought himself to 15th overall in team scoring at 224 points. He played for the Sens for six and a half seasons before being traded to Toronto in the Dion Phaneuf trade. Michalek may have never been a star for Ottawa but he was one of the most important players for the team in a time when the team was struggling.