It’s no secret that Eugene Melnyk and his relationship with the fans of the Ottawa Senators is currently in shambles. With Melnyk calling out the fans during the Heritage Classic, as well as issues with Kyle Turris and formerly Daniel Alfredsson, Sens fans are calling for the owner to sell the franchise.
The hashtag #MelnykOut has been a trend in Ottawa over Twitter and social media. Multiple fans have passionately expressed their dislike for the owner – both verbally and through written pieces. The rumors of Erik Karlsson being dealt at the deadline was the final straw. Fans have booed Melnyk and even held up signs at the Canadian Tire Centre to get rid of Melnyk instead of Karlsson.
Melnyk is trying to patch the relationship with the Senators fan base, as earlier today he sent out a lengthy note to season seat holders. In the note, Melnyk recognizes the poor season from the Senators and that he is as committed to the Senators as he was back in 2003. He goes on to mention that the Senators as an organization are looking to improve the fan experience, as well as repeating that the goal is to bring a Stanley Cup in Ottawa.
Eugene Melnyk and the Senators just sent a letter out to season seat holders: pic.twitter.com/1Jglu0rMnP
— Graeme Nichols (@GraemeNichols) March 1, 2018
It seems like it’s a last-ditch effort for Melnyk to rebuild the trust of the Senators fan base. It will certainly take time for Melnyk to regain the trust of the Senators. The first step may be signing Karlsson to an extended contract.
The issues in Ottawa will linger for months. The bad taste left in the mouths of Sens fans is still fresh. Only time will tell if the Sens army can trust their once savior.
