Article content continued

“It’s part of the business and none of this is personal at the end of the day,” said Duchene. “I’m very thankful for my new destination and I’m very thankful (for the chance) to be (with the Avs).”

Duchene said he joked with his family about the possibility of being dealt during the game before he went on the ice. He knew the trade was done when he saw the coaching staff talking on the bench.

“I’ll have a good story to tell one day,” Duchene said.

The Senators feel if they can surround Duchene with the proper talent, he’s going to have success here. Let’s face it, the Avs haven’t been very good for a long time and Duchene is going to get a chance to play with skilled players — including the ability for captain Erik Karlsson to get him the puck.

Duchene has four goals and six assists for 10 points in 13 games this season and the Senators feel this change of scenery is only going to help him.

“We feel this deal brings us some top prospects as well as some high draft picks for both the short and the long-term future,” said Sakic. “We’ve said all along that we wanted to be patient and wait for the right deal and this is the opportunity we feel is best for the organization.”

Yes, people will be upset the Senators let Turris go in the trade, but the reality is he wasn’t going to re-sign here. The two sides were on opposite sides of the table in contract talks and they weren’t going to be able to bridge the gap. If he wasn’t dealt Sunday, it would have only been a matter of time before he was traded.