Leeder was a member of the original group that returned NHL hockey to Ottawa. Former Sens Owner and founder Bruce Firestone credits Leeder with saving the franchise multiple times.
A BIG THANK YOU TO #SENS CO-FOUNDER CYRIL LEEDER WHO SAVED THE FRANCHISE FOR #OTTAWA AT LEAST 3 TIMES https://t.co/6mMggmalZi
— Dr Bruce M Firestone (@ProfBruce) January 25, 2017
Ottawa’s attendance has been down this season. The Organization is looking to reinvigorate the Sens brand.
Senators Owner Eugene Melnyk said it was time for a change, noting that “something” was missing under Leeder and a desire to reinvigorate the Sens brand.