The Ottawa Senators, since their NHL return in 1992, have had a number of standout players over the past 30 years. Based on available data, fan sentiment, and statistical records, here’s a look at some of the best all-time Senators from this period, focusing on their impact, stats, and legacy with the team. I’ll highlight the top players, as they frequently appear across sources for their contributions.
These players were chosen for their statistical dominance, awards, leadership, and impact on the Senators’ success, particularly in playoff runs like 2007 and 2017. Alfredsson and Karlsson are near-unanimous picks across sources for their records and transformative presence. Spezza and Heatley represent the offensive firepower of the mid-2000s, while Anderson’s goaltending heroics anchor the list. Honorable mentions like Hossa and Chara reflect depth but shorter tenures or less consistent impact compared to the top five.
If you’d like a deeper dive into stats, specific seasons, or other players, let me know! I can also check recent posts on X for more fan perspectives or analyze specific player profiles if needed.
- Daniel Alfredsson (1995–2013)
- Why He’s the Best: Alfredsson is widely regarded as the greatest Senator ever. He’s the franchise leader in goals (426), assists (682), and points (1,108) in 1,178 games. As captain from 1999 to 2013, the longest-serving in team history, he led the Senators to consistent success, including a 2007 Stanley Cup Final appearance. His 100 playoff points in 121 games and six All-Star appearances cement his legacy. Fans and analysts alike see him as the face of the franchise, with leadership that transformed the team from an expansion underdog to a contender.
- Notable Achievements: Won the Calder Trophy (1996), King Clancy Trophy (2012), and Mark Messier Leadership Award (2013). His 103-point season in 2005–06 was a career highlight, earning top-five finishes for the Lady Byng, Selke, and Hart Trophies.
- Erik Karlsson (2009–2018)
- Why He’s Elite: Karlsson redefined the modern defenseman role with his skating, vision, and puck-moving ability. He’s the franchise’s all-time leader in points by a defenseman (518) and third overall in points. His points-per-game average (0.82) ranks 12th in team history, far above other defensemen. Drafted 15th overall in 2008, he won the Norris Trophy in 2012 and 2015, showcasing his dominance. His role in the 2016–17 Eastern Conference Final run was pivotal.
- Notable Achievements: Two-time Norris Trophy winner, a rare feat for a Senator. His 2015–16 season (82 points) was historic for a defenseman.
- Jason Spezza (2002–2014)
- Why He’s a Standout: A gifted playmaker, Spezza was a key part of the “Pizza Line” alongside Alfredsson and Dany Heatley, driving the Senators’ offense in the mid-2000s. Selected second overall in 2001, he amassed 687 points in 686 games, second only to Alfredsson in franchise history. His point-per-game pace and chemistry with linemates fueled the 2007 Cup Final run.
- Notable Achievements: Recorded 90+ points in three seasons, with a career-high 92 in 2005–06. His All-Star appearances in 2008 and 2012 highlight his impact.
- Craig Anderson (2011–2020)
- Why He’s Notable: Anderson is the Senators’ all-time leader in goaltending wins (202), games played (435), and is second in shutouts. His ability to steal games, especially during the 2016–17 playoff run to the Eastern Conference Final, earned him widespread respect. Despite playing on weaker teams later in his tenure, his resilience shone through, notably during his wife’s cancer battle in 2016–17, when he posted a shutout in an emotional game.
- Notable Achievements: Won the Bill Masterton Trophy (2017) for perseverance and dedication. Tied for the franchise record in playoff wins (21).
- Dany Heatley (2005–2009)
- Why He’s Included: Heatley’s brief but explosive tenure saw him become one of the Senators’ most prolific scorers. Acquired in 2005, he posted back-to-back 50-goal, 100-point seasons (2005–06, 2006–07), a franchise first. His 218 points in 2005–07 are unmatched in team history for a two-year span. He was instrumental in the 2007 Cup Final run.
- Notable Achievements: His 50-goal seasons remain a Senators record. All-Star appearances in 2003, 2007, and 2009.
- Marián Hossa (1998–2004): An electrifying forward, Hossa set the franchise record for goals in a season (45 in 2002–03). His speed and scoring ability made him a fan favorite before his trade to Atlanta.
- Chris Phillips (1997–2016): A defensive stalwart, Phillips played 1,179 games, second only to Alfredsson. His game-winning goal in the 2003 Eastern Conference Final against New Jersey is iconic.
- Brady Tkachuk (2018–present): The current captain, Tkachuk’s physicality and leadership have made him a cornerstone. His 2022–23 season (83 points) shows his offensive growth.
- Zdeno Chara (2001–2006): Before becoming a Bruins legend, Chara was a towering presence on Ottawa’s blue line. His physicality and shot paired well with offensive defensemen like Wade Redden.
- Alexei Yashin (1993–2001): The first face of the franchise, Yashin scored 30 goals as a rookie in 1993–94. His 491 points rank high, though his tenure was marred by contract disputes.
These players were chosen for their statistical dominance, awards, leadership, and impact on the Senators’ success, particularly in playoff runs like 2007 and 2017. Alfredsson and Karlsson are near-unanimous picks across sources for their records and transformative presence. Spezza and Heatley represent the offensive firepower of the mid-2000s, while Anderson’s goaltending heroics anchor the list. Honorable mentions like Hossa and Chara reflect depth but shorter tenures or less consistent impact compared to the top five.
If you’d like a deeper dive into stats, specific seasons, or other players, let me know! I can also check recent posts on X for more fan perspectives or analyze specific player profiles if needed.
