Alfredsson joining Senators' coaching staff for games in Sweden

A game in Stockholm between the Ottawa Senators and Detroit Red Wings would be incomplete without Daniel Alfredsson's involvement, but Swedish fans need not worry.

Alfredsson will be on the bench for both of Ottawa's games in his home country this week, namely Thursday's clash between his two former clubs and then Saturday's tilt between the Senators and the Minnesota Wild.

"(I) talked to the coaching staff (and) they asked me if I would like to join them," he told TSN 1200. "I guess I've done a decent enough job that they trust me. I'm really looking forward to that, being part of the action and (seeing) it up close."

However, the former winger isn't going to take the Global Series lightly.

"These are big games for both teams. Every point matters," he said. "We know it's going to be a tight race through most of the season, so obviously if I'm going to be on the bench for these two games, I want us to be successful. So I'll be nervous, but it's going to be really fun and I'm definitely looking forward to it."

Red Wings legend Nicklas Lidstrom, who's also on hand for Thursday's game, helped Alfredsson out by translating his quip about playing.

Alfredsson, who'll turn 51 on Dec. 11, rejoined the Senators in October in a role that includes player development and coaching. He served as a senior adviser to hockey operations for Ottawa after retiring as a player but left the team in 2017 before returning this fall.

The Swedish great personified the Senators during his 17-year tenure. He's still the franchise's all-time leader in goals, assists, and points, and he ranks second to Chris Phillips in games played by one. Alfredsson also played one season with the Red Wings before signing a one-day contract to conclude his career with Ottawa.