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Senators fall in OT to Red Wings after Alfredsson's number retired |
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Well two years after officially retiring as an Ottawa Senator, the #11 of longtime captain Daniel Alfredsson was raised to the rafters last night in a stirring ceremony that featured highlights of his remarkable career, testimonials via video from the likes of Jason Spezza, Zdeno Chara as well as a nice speech in house from Wade Redden.
It was an emotional hour as the Senators celebrated what might be the franchise's biggest off-ice event (even though it was held on the ice) since the franchise was awarded. This franchise is still in its infancy compared to most in the league and this is the first piece of real history fans can hold on to.
Alfredsson's speech was just about what you would expect - modest and classy, like most of his playing days.
But, there was also a game to be played and the emotion of the ceremony that preceded it didn't seem to carry over. Also starting with a lineup meant to spread the offense to three lines didn't seem to work as the absence of Zack Smith really hurt the depth. And when Smith's absence affects the offense that much, you know there is a need.
Still, led by Derick Brassard's 1 goal, 1 assist effort and a rebound game from Mike Condon, the Senators managed to end regulation with a point, partially because Detroit didn't have much more jump that the Senators did.
However, playing in overtime 3-on-3 is a pretty simple task, you just get your man and cover him. Cody Ceci forgot that for a second and it resulted in leaving Anthony Mantha alone beside the net while both Ceci and Ryan went to Niklas Kronwall. Kronwall found Mantha and Condon couldn't get across fast enough to make the save.
Jared Coreau, from Perth, Ontario made 26 saves to earn his second career win in the Red Wings' net.
Ottawa has one game left before they get their bye week, with the next two being a home and home series with the Capitals with a five day gap in between.
Ottawa Senators Blogger • 
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