Toronto Maple Leafs appoint Senators legend Daniel Alfredsson as coach
Ottawa Senators legend Daniel Alfredsson has joined rival franchise the Toronto Maple Leafs as an associate coach on Tuesday.
The 53-year-old makes the surprising switch after spending the previous three seasons working as an assistant in Canada’s capital.
The Swedish Hall of Famer was once considered public enemy number one in Toronto during a stellar playing career spent predominantly with the Senators.
He featured prominently in the fierce ‘Battle of Ontario’, which included four intense playoff showdowns between the two clubs from 2000 to 2004.
Coaching staff overhaul under Hiller
Alfredsson will now serve under Maple Leafs head coach Jim Hiller as part of a significant backroom reshuffle.
The Toronto outfit confirmed that John Gruden and Brad Werenka have also been added to the technical staff as assistant coaches.
Consequently, former assistants Mike Van Ryn and Derek Lalonde will not return to the bench for the upcoming NHL campaign.
Andlauer leaves door open for return
The departure of their iconic former captain represents a significant emotional blow for the Ottawa fanbase.
Senators owner Michael Andlauer released a statement confirming his disappointment that the veteran had chosen to join a direct competitor.
However, the Ottawa chief emphasized that the organization’s door will always remain open should the winger ever wish to return.