Alex DeBrincat breaks his silence, speaks publicly about his apparent rift with Senators

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Mike Armenti
October 21, 2023 (11:40)

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When Alex DeBrincat was traded to the Detroit Red Wings this summer, it resolved one of the most intriguing storylines in the NHL over the last year and change. DeBrincat lasted just one year in Ottawa after the Sens sent a substantial package to the Chicago Blackhawks for the young winger, including the 7th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. However, when it became abundantly clear that DeBrincat did not want to re-sign in Ottawa, the Sens did the best they could to recoup similar assets to the ones they parted with the acquire him. They did not get back anything close to what they gave up.

There were rumours circulating that had indicated that DeBrincat wanted out of Ottawa and had requested a trade, as he was unhappy in the role that he was given with the Sens. DeBrincat claims that those rumours are inaccurate. He revealed as much this week.

"Through the trade process, a lot of things that were put out there were not necessarily what was actually going on behind closed doors. No, I never asked for a trade. I said I wasn't going to sign long-term. And they took that as writing on the wall."

DeBrincat revealed that his decision not to re-sign long-term in Ottawa had nothing to do with the team and had more to do with wanting to play closer to come. The Michigan native got his wish, as the Sens facilitated a deal with the Detroit Red Wings, which DeBrincat is thankful for, specifically so that his son is closer to his grandparents.

"Archie is growing up with his grandparents around. That's a luxury that most NHL players don't get. I do think that's something that's overlooked. We have lives outside of hockey. It's been so good for me and my wife."

As for the City of Ottawa and the Senators, DeBrincat insisted he loved his time there and doesn't see how any player wouldn't enjoy the opportunity to play there.

"Hating Ottawa is not going to happen for me or most players. It's such a great city. It just ended up not being the best fit for me and my family. To get the chance to come back to Detroit was something we couldn't pass up."

DeBrincat revealed that he still has great relationships with his former teammates and that there is no ill will on either side.