In a development that has sent waves of excitement through the hockey world, D.J. Smith — formerly head coach of the Ottawa Senators and more recently an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings — is officially returning to the Senators in a new senior coaching capacity.
The announcement was made today at a press conference held at Canadian Tire Centre, where a cheering crowd of Senators community members, staff, and fans greeted the beloved coach’s return.
A Homecoming Long Awaited
Smith originally helmed the Senators from 2019 until his dismissal in December 2023.
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After his firing, he joined the Kings’ coaching staff as an assistant in early 2024.
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Rumors of a return have circulated for months, and today those were confirmed: Smith will take on a senior coaching role — a position aimed at blending mentorship, strategy, and operational leadership within the Senators’ staff.
Senators President of Hockey Operations shared:
“We could not imagine anyone more fitting for this role. D.J. brings a combination of organizational knowledge, loyalty, and tactical insight that will be invaluable as we build toward excellence.”
Smith, emotional but composed, responded:
“I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity. Ottawa has always been home to me, and having the chance to return and contribute again — in a role where I can support both players and coaches — is a dream come true.”
What the Role Entails & What to Expect
As Senior Coach, Smith will not be the everyday bench boss but rather a guiding voice across all levels of coaching. His duties will include:
Advising the head coach in systems, tactics, and adjustments
Mentoring younger coaches throughout the organization
Working with development teams and prospects
Serving as a bridge between management and on‑ice staff
Despite not being the formal head coach, his influence is expected to be substantial. Insiders say the current head coach will benefit from Smith’s institutional experience, his ability to foster relationships, and his deep knowledge of Senators’ culture.
Reactions from the Community
At Canadian Tire Centre tonight, the air was electric. Fans held signs reading “Welcome Home, D.J.” and “Sens Family United.” Many expressed hope that this move marks a turning point for a franchise hungry for consistency and identity.
Veteran players who worked with Smith previously expressed optimism. “He always held us accountable, always believed in us,” said one former Senator (speaking off the record). “Having him back, even if not behind the bench every night — that sends a message.”
Local media figures described the move as “a masterstroke by management” and “exactly the leadership injection this team needed.”
Challenges & Hopes Ahead
Not lost in the euphoria is the fact that the Senators have struggled in recent years, missing the playoffs repeatedly.
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For Smith, the pressure is real: he must translate past goodwill into results. The head coach, whose name is yet to be officially confirmed in this scenario, will carry the burden for day‑to‑day performance. But most agree Smith’s presence raises the ceiling for what this franchise can achieve.
As for fans, tonight’s announcement feels like the start of something new — a revival, a recommitment to excellence, and a hopeful turning point. The echoes of applause in Canadian Tire Centre are still reverberating.
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