Even thirteen months ago — thirteen — I thought the only time I’d ever have to write “Erik Karlsson returns to Ottawa” would be a decade from now, on the night the Senators inevitably retired the jersey of the greatest player in franchise history.
Well, as we all know by now, Stuff Happened (and for a summary of my feelings on said Stuff, please read Ross’ morning piece here). Hence, the city of Ottawa is abuzz, and the atmosphere around the Canadian Tire Centre for a Saturday afternoon matinée is palpable.
Let’s get to the lines, shall we?