Former Senators Captain Alfredsson Settles Into Maple Leafs Role

Daniel Alfredsson says coaching against Ottawa feels different but is part of NHL life after his offseason move to Jim Hiller's staff in Toronto.

Daniel Alfredsson spent his playing days as one of the least welcome visitors in Toronto. Now he works there. The Maple Leafs hired the former Ottawa Senators captain and assistant coach during the offseason, with general manager John Chayka adding him to head coach Jim Hiller's staff. For supporters on both ends of the Battle of Ontario, the pairing once seemed far-fetched.

The new role received an early test. Before Toronto dropped a 3-2 decision to the Senators at Scotiabank Arena, Alfredsson spoke with TSN about switching sides in the rivalry. He said the preseason had already given him a first look at the Ottawa players he grew close to over three years with the organization.

Alfredsson called the change odd but routine by NHL standards. "It's different, there's no question, being on the other side, but it's also something we all know in this league," he said. He added that he keeps good relationships with many Senators players and staff, wishes them well, and — with a smile — wants his own side to do a little better.

There was room for humor about an old adversary as well. Asked about Darcy Tucker, the former Maple Leafs forward who is now a team ambassador and who had numerous on-ice battles with Alfredsson during their careers, he drew laughter with a short reply: "We kissed and made up."

Settling into a new city has been its own adjustment. Alfredsson said he expected a lower profile after leaving Ottawa, only to learn that residents still know his face. "It's a big city and I've loved the energy of the city," he said. "I thought I would be more incognito in the city, but they still remember my face, some of them, and I love it. I do. They're great."

He expects the usual ups and downs for everyone across a long season and said he considers it important to stay visible around town. He described his first month in Toronto as hectic and said he is eager for the stretch that lies ahead.

The appointment carries weight because of what Alfredsson means in Ottawa. He played most of his NHL hockey with the Senators before suiting up for the Detroit Red Wings in 2013-14, and he later returned to the Ottawa bench as an assistant coach. He also became the first player in franchise history to have his number retired by the club.

That history ensures a divided reaction back in Ottawa. A franchise icon joining a longtime rival is not expected to sit well with every segment of the Senators' fan base.

The Senators, fresh off a win over their former captain's new club, visit the Boston Bruins on Monday, October 5 at 7:30 PM EDT at TD Garden. Coverage airs on ESPN+ and NESN.