A New Chapter for D.J. Smith After Senators Tenure
Former Ottawa Senators head coach D.J. Smith has concluded his time with the team, leaving behind a legacy of relationship-building and player development, despite facing challenges on and off the ice. Following a stint in Tempe, Smith is returning to Ottawa, reflecting on his tenure and looking ahead to future coaching opportunities.
Coaching Changes in Ottawa
The Senators' organization saw significant changes when interim General Manager Steve Staios made the decision to release Smith and assistant coach Davis Payne from their duties. This move came after the team struggled to meet performance expectations, which were compounded by the earlier firing of Pierre Dorion as GM. The shift in leadership signaled a new direction for the franchise, with Jacques Martin stepping in as the interim coach, supported by Daniel Alfredsson as an assistant.
Smith's Reflections on His Time with the Senators
Despite the disappointment of not advancing the team to the next level, Smith looks back at his time with the Senators with a sense of pride, particularly in the area of player development. "I think I did my job in developing these young guys and turning them into real NHL players by giving them the confidence every day," he stated. He had high hopes for the team's core, especially when considering the depth that players like Stutzle, Norris, and Pinto could provide alongside a healthy Chabot. "When this team gets those three guys in the lineup with a healthy Chabot, they’re capable of winning every night," Smith expressed with conviction.
Injuries, however, played a significant role in derailing the team's momentum, preventing the Senators from establishing the consistency needed for a successful season. Despite these setbacks, Smith maintained belief in his players and the culture he worked to create. He emphasized the importance of building relationships and instilling effort in his players, qualities that were recognized and appreciated by the team during a gathering at a local bar.
Personal Insights and Future Aspirations
Smith's passion for coaching remains undiminished by recent events. With the unwavering support of his family, including his mother, who he describes as a "diehard D.J. Smith fan," he is poised to continue his career behind the bench. "I know that I’m going to be back. I love coaching. I learned so much while being here," Smith shared, signaling his intention to apply the lessons learned from his experiences with the Senators to his future endeavors.
The chants calling for his dismissal, while hurtful to his family, have not dampened Smith's resolve. He acknowledges the nature of professional sports and the pressures to perform: "My job is to fix it and win games." Despite the hardships, Smith retains fond memories of the previous season and believes that without the injuries, particularly to the goalies, the team would have had a strong chance at success.
As he prepares for the holiday season, Smith plans to spend quality time with his family, cherishing moments that he often missed due to the demands of his profession. The time away from the rink will also allow him to reflect on his approach, aiming to maintain an even-keeled demeanor in his future coaching roles. "You have to be steady on the rudder," he remarked, emphasizing the need for stability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
Throughout his tenure with the Senators, Smith has been credited with enhancing the culture around the team, both in the locker room and throughout the arena. His communication and bench management skills are areas where he feels he has made considerable improvements. "I believe my communication and bench skills got better as it went on," said Smith, highlighting the ongoing development of his coaching acumen.
Looking forward, Smith carries with him the lessons of his past, the support of his loved ones, and a clear vision for the future. "I believed wholeheartedly this year we’d make the playoffs," he stated, a testament to his enduring optimism and commitment to the sport. As the Senators embark on a new chapter, so too does D.J. Smith, ready to face the next challenge in his distinguished coaching career.