After missing out on the 2018 playoffs after losing in the 2017 Eastern Conference Finals, the Ottawa Senators were eager to land on a late round draft pick in the 2018 NHL Draft. With the 126th overall pick, the Senators selected Angus Crookshank.
The North Vancouver native grew his game with the Langley Rivermen in the BCHL before being selected by the Senators. However, Crookshank had a difficult time getting NHL experience since being drafted.
Twenty days ago, Crookshank signed a two-year contract with the New Jersey Devils. At 25 years old, Crookshank still has the ability to get more NHL experience. Even with leaving the Senators organization, Crookshank still appreciates the Senators and their fans.
Crookshank shows love to Sens Army after leaving
Crookshank recently made a guest appearance on SENS TALK. During the episode, Crookshank gave appreciation toward Sens fans despite the little NHL experience he had in Ottawa.
"Just thank you," Crookshank said. "I've been very fortunate to have a lot of support from people."
It might be shocking but Crookshank only played in 21 games and recorded four points with the Senators. This past season, Crookshank recorded just one assist in eight games.
However, Crookshank caught Sens fans' eyes during his time in the AHL with the Belleville Senators. With Belleville, Crookshank broke the franchise record for most goals scored all-time in franchise history.
Even when Crookshank didn't get NHL playing time, he mentioned how Sens fans would reach out to him to check on him with how he's feeling. Crookshank said it helped him "more than they'd know." Crookshank also mentioned how his family was able to meet awesome Sens fans.
A moment that Crookshank will never forget with the Senators is when he scored his first NHL goal in December 2023 against the then Arizona Coyotes.
Crookshank also gave a tease to his new team he's a member of. Crookshank would replicate Patrick "Puddy" Warburton's famous "we're the Devils" line from Seinfield during the guest appearance.
In the end, Crookshank had to fight to get steady NHL playing time in Ottawa. Even with leaving, Sens Army will hold a place in Crookshank's heart. The Senators host the Devils twice in the 2025-26 season if Crookshank is called up in the NHL to return to Ottawa.
The Senators host the Devils on Dec. 9 and Jan. 31.