Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #15 Martin Havlat
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 missed the last post in the series here you go!
Ottawa Senators Greatest Players: #16-20 Review and Recap
Now without further ado the 15th greatest player in Ottawa Senators history….
#15 Martin Havlat
Martin Havlat was a homegrown talent for the Ottawa Senators. Drafted at 26th overall in 1999, Havlat would join the Sens just one year after being drafted. In his first season he was a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy as the rookie of the year. He scored 19 goals and 42 points in that first season.
Havlat quickly became known for his speed while with the Sens and earned the nickname “Mach 9” as a result of his speed and jersey number. As his career progressed Havlat quickly became an elite scorer and over five seasons in Ottawa he accumulated 235 points in just 298 games.
Unfortunately, the Havlat was limited in reaching his true potential because of injuries. During his time in Ottawa he although elite he never showed just how great he was because of a constant barrage of injuries. He was a near point a game player but would miss 10-15 games most seasons. In his last season in Ottawa he only played 18 games in the regular season.
Havlat left Ottawa following the 2006 season in a trade. He told management that he would only sign a one year contract as he wanted to test free agency the next season. As a result he was traded to the Blackhawks.
Next: Ottawa Senators: Alex Burrows 2017-2018 Season Preview
Martin Havlat is another name amongst Ottawa Senators alumni that didn’t reach their true potential because of injuries. However, when healthy Havlat was one of the best players to ever wear a Sens jersey.