TORONTO – Longtime Ottawa Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson laced up his skates one more time to take part in pre-game warm-ups with the Senators Thursday night.
The 41-year-old Alfredsson said farewell to Sens fans after signing a ceremonial one-day contract earlier Thursday to retire from the NHL with the team he spent most of 18 seasons with.
He donned the number 11 Senators jersey one more time and skated around the rink where he received a standing ovation from fans before Ottawa’s home game against the New York Islanders.
An emotional Alfredsson raised his stick as he skated to salute the cheering fans as “Alfie” chants rained down from the crowd.
READ MORE: Longtime Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson officially announces retirement
“Oh my God, that could’ve been one of my best skates ever,” Alfredsson told The Canadian Press. “I couldn’t have played, I’m not in good enoughshape. But I skated a couple laps and you feel like, ‘Maybe a few shifts.”‘
WATCH: Alfie says farewell to the fans.
Alfredsson spent last year with the Detroit Red Wings after playing his first 17 seasons with Ottawa.
A Senators captain for 13 seasons, he is the franchise’s all-time leader in games played (1,178), points (1,108), goals (426) and assists (682).
*With files from The Canadian Press
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