It may be a tumultuous period for the Ottawa Senators, but Matt Duchene says he'll look back at his time in the nation's capital with fondness.
After being traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets Friday afternoon, Duchene posted a parting message on his Twitter account to the Senators, the city of Ottawa, and the team's fans. The 28-year-old called the Senators organization "first class" and added that "it was truly special to be a part of" the group of players in the Ottawa locker room.
A native of Haliburton, Ont., Duchene thanked the city of Ottawa and Senators fans, writing that it was "amazing" to play in his home province.
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"I can't think of a better place for my son Beau to have been born and I can't wait to tell him all about our time here when he's old enough," Duchene wrote. "Thank you Ottawa! It was truly a pleasure."
@Senators pic.twitter.com/dZ5vapeDOY
— Matt Duchene (@Matt9Duchene) February 22, 2019
After arriving in Ottawa in November 2017 via a trade with the Colorado Avalanche, Duchene scored 50 goals and added 57 assists in 118 games. He was second in team scoring this season with 58 points, four behind Mark Stone.
Duchene won't have to travel far to join his new team, as the Blue Jackets are in Ottawa to face the Senators Friday night. He is expected to suit up for Columbus at the Canadian Tire Centre.