Chris Kelly’s Reflection on the Ottawa Senators
Chris Kelly, now an assistant coach for the Boston Bruins, fondly reflects on his time in the NHL, calling the Ottawa Senators team from the mid-1990s to early 2000s possibly the best he ever played on. This sentiment evokes strong memories of a squad that, despite their remarkable two-way play, faced heartbreaking playoff exits, cementing a legacy of near-misses that left fans disheartened. Current discussions among hockey analysts, including THN’s Steve Warne and Gregg Kennedy, hint at the need for improvements in Olympic hockey formats as the games return to Italy, creating a poignant connection to the Senators’ story during the 2005-06 season—a chapter marked by immense talent yet ultimately lacking the coveted championship.
Building a Competitive Team
Over the previous decade, the groundwork for the Senators’ ascent as a force in the Eastern Conference was meticulously laid, characterized by astute amateur scouting and effective player development. In a small-market environment, the Senators had to compete against giants like Toronto and New York without the luxury of massive budgets. Instead of investing heavily in established players, the organization focused on nurturing young talent, aiming for longevity and team cohesion.
Coached by Jacques Martin, known for his tactical brilliance, the team adopted a disciplined approach, prioritizing defensive responsibilities before venturing into offensive strategies. Following their first playoff appearance in the 1996-97 season, the Senators began to build momentum, culminating in a Presidents’ Trophy win with 113 points in the 2002-03 season. Yet, a cycle of painful playoff defeats to their provincial rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs, prompted significant changes needed to break the trend.
Ownership Changes and New Directions
In August 2023, Eugene Melnyk, purchasing the team from bankruptcy, instilled a newfound confidence in the organization. His approach, combative against Toronto, was a stark contrast from previous ownership. Following yet another playoff disappointment, Melnyk dismissed Martin and appointed Bryan Murray, who expressed his longing to return to a hockey-centric environment.
“I wanted very badly to come back to coach,” he affirmed. “This team has a chance to win.”
The Impact of the NHL Lockout
However, the Senators were in a peculiar situation due to the NHL lockout, which left them unable to capitalize on their roster strengths until negotiations ended in mid-2005. A tight salary cap was instituted, complicating their roster decisions. Marian Hossa, a prolific winger, became a casualty of the new system, subsequently traded to the Atlanta Thrashers for Dany Heatley—a decision that would impact team dynamics. Hossa was negotiating a significant deal just before the trade, catching him off-guard as it was executed just hours after he signed a lucrative contract.
Heatley arrived in Ottawa under immense pressure, seeking to redefine his career after personal tragedies and injuries. He understood the high expectations and the ‘what ifs’ of entering a storied franchise. While trades and roster changes could destabilize a team, the timing of the lockout provided a buffer that minimized disruptive impacts on team chemistry.
Strengthening the Roster
The Senators not only acquired Heatley but also brought in veteran goaltender Dominik Hasek, a strategic move that promised to bolster their playoff aspirations. Hasek, excited to join an elite team, shared a history with Murray, and his experience was anticipated to provide much-needed stability between the pipes.
As they commenced the 2005-06 season, the Senators, armed with depth and talent—including their cohesive ‘Pizza Line’ of Heatley, Jason Spezza, and Daniel Alfredsson, quickly positioned themselves as the team to beat, boasting an impressive start that led to significant expectations around securing a Cup.
Challenges and Unfulfilled Potential
Throughout the season, Ottawa showcased their offensive prowess, with multiple players exceeding scoring expectations and satisfying fans with explosive performances. The camaraderie built within the roster led to a sense of invincibility, with players projecting confidence that multiplied as the campaign progressed.
Regrettably, despite their remarkable journey, unforeseen injuries and setbacks would challenge the Senators’ ambition for glory and leave their true potential unfulfilled. The 2005-06 Senators, despite all the promise and precursors to success, ultimately represent both the zenith of potential and a reminder of the unforgiving nature of competitive sports. Looking forward, a detailed examination of their downfall will shed light on lessons learned from one of the NHL’s storied franchises.
