National Hockey League (NHL) Players with most responsibility in the Eastern Conference -Part 6
Teams and young players on the roster always are in dire need of guidance and a sense of direction, which unless if not provided when needed, creates a confusion throughout the line-up on moments which count the most. Such is the case with teams like Ottawa
Senators and Philadelphia Flyers.
Ilya Bryzgalov (Goalie, Philadelphia Flyers)
After leading Philadelphia Flyers to the playoffs a number of times, Ilya Bryzgalov became one of the most wanted goalies throughout the National Hockey League (NHL). After becoming a free agent on July 1, 2011, Bryzgalov noticed that he could demand almost
anything he wanted and decided to leave Phoenix.
The 31-year-old veteran signed a huge deal with the confused Philadelphia Flyers, nine-years, $51 million, and has promised to lead them to Stanley Cup glory once again.
According to the Russian goalie, staying with Phoenix was hampering his aspirations of lifting up the championship cup with his hands, thus resulting in him needing to find a better team which could help him in the achievement of his dreams.
Philadelphia has been lacking defensive depth throughout the past few seasons which has seriously stunted it as a team and by giving Bryzgalov everything he demanded, they hope to use him to the best of his abilities, as much as possible.
Daniel Alfredsson (Captain, Ottawa Senators)
Ottawa Senators are a perfect example of a team which is in dire need of quality guidance in order to save it from being relocated after the stands begin to clear out. It is only a matter of time when Ottawa becomes an ousted team and loses its value in
the NHL, if it does not do something quick, soon.
Drafted as Ottawa’s 133rd overall draft pick during round-six of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft, Alfredsson has certainly proved to be a much greater player than previously expected. He will be entering his 16th straight season with the franchise,
which will surely be a true challenge if he is still worthy of retaining the captaincy or not.
Last season, he was limited to only 54 games due to injury related problems, but still managed to score 31 points (14 goals, 17 assists) in 54 games played.
This offseason was also very important for Ottawa as they recruited a number of young players to uplift their team but those additions will be of no benefit, until and unless their captain can guide them.
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