Hemsky revitalized with prominent Sens' role

The Ottawa Sun notes Ales Hemsky was asked before Saturday's game what his role had become with the Edmonton Oilers.

"I don't even know,' he said. "They've rebuilt, and brought in young players. Obviously, I knew my situation when I was coming back. Those guys are good players and they needed time to grow up. They've been given the time, and that's probably how it should be over there. So I never complained about it. I knew my role. So this is really exciting for me.

"I have a chance to play hockey again, and have fun."

Again, a very candid answer from the Senators winger. Not the least bit derogatory toward his former team - he was simply explaining how it had become there.

Hemsky has been playing on a line with Jason Spezza in Ottawa and as an unrestricted free agent this summer, the lure of a top line spot could certainly be a factor in where he'll sign.

"That's the role you want," he said of seeing top line and power play time. "I've always been an offensive guy. If you want to get points to help the team, you need to be in those spots.

"It was just how it was because those guys needed time and space. I usually played on the third line, not the whole year, we switched around the lines a lot, but it was just a different role. I'm excited for this role."

Source: Don Brennan, Ottawa Sun