Will Daniel Alfredsson play in 2014-15? If he decides to continue his NHL career at the age of 41, Alfredsson will reportedly only do it with the Detroit Red Wings.
Daniel Alfredsson says on Swedish radio that he will hit ice next week. Depending on how his back will respond, he will decide about future.
— Szymon Szemberg (@Sz1909_Szemberg) August 5, 2014
So you’re telling me there’s a chance. It remains to be seen how Alfredsson’s aging body will handle his planned training, but it’s clear he’s going to at least try to continue his career. He has slowed in recent years, but his 49 points in 68 games last season proved that he still has a bit of offensive magic left in the tank.
If Alfredsson returns, it’ll be with one team and one team only:
Finally, @DAlfredsson11 said that if he plays one more year, it will be with @DetroitRedWings. No other options.
— Szymon Szemberg (@Sz1909_Szemberg) August 5, 2014
That should settle any rumors out there suggesting he’ll opt to return to Ottawa or land with a different team. Even a team in Europe appears to be out of the question.
One last from @DAlfredsson11 "Playing at home 1 last season not an option. It actually takes more to prepare for Euro season than for NHL".
— Szymon Szemberg (@Sz1909_Szemberg) August 5, 2014
That’s a pretty surprising final comment from Alfredsson. Are the European leagues really more grueling than the NHL? Though you may need more stamina to endure skating around the larger rinks, you’d have to imagine that the NHL’s smaller rink and increased collisions would be more demanding.
Regardless, it’s safe to assume the Red Wings would find a place for him should he decide he’s able to go one more year. Stay tuned. We should have an answer on Alfredsson in the near future.
