Former Senators forward Zack Smith posts goodbye letter to Ottawa

“Well I didn’t expect to wake up to a call from my agent this morning that I am being traded. It’s a lot to digest when I have never been through a trade before but it’s a very exciting new opportunity to say the least.

“First of all, my wife and I would like to thank the Ottawa Senators organization for the opportunity to play in the best league in the world and be able to call Ottawa home for the last decade. Unfortunately, Bryan Murray is no longer with us so I don’t have the opportunity to shake his hand and say thanks for taking a chance on a gangly Sask kid. So thanks Bob Lowes for scouting me out of the WHL. Thank you to the Campeau family who made Ottawa feel like home right from the start.

“Thanks to all the fans and the city of Ottawa. It has been a great pleasure playing in front of you for over 600 games as you were always fantastic and respectful to interact with over the years.

“Thank you to the Sens Foundation. Britt and I were able to meet so many amazing people through all the work they do in the city with organizations like Roger Neilson House, 65 Roses and Maddy’s Gala just to name a few. Most of all we will miss the amazing teammates and staff in Ottawa. I couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable, fun and professional group of people to work with every single day. To the team doctors, medical staff, trainers, equipment staff, media relations staff and especially my teammates, Thank you Thank you.

“It’s an amazing group of guys in that locker room with a promising future ahead of them. With that being said we are extremely excited to be a part of the Chicago Blackhawks organization and call the Madhouse our new home!”