Music: {allcanada} EUROPE WOULD BE ALFIE'S BRIDGE TO NEXT NHL SEASON

Thursday, November 29, 2012

{allcanada} EUROPE WOULD BE ALFIE'S BRIDGE TO NEXT NHL SEASON

The Ottawa Sun relays that Daniel Alfredsson mentioned Austria as a possible destination for him and his family — along with again listing Italy and France — should the NHL fail to reach a new CBA with the players' association.

He'll probably start exploring the options in earnest around the time he turns the big four-oh Dec. 11.

"I think it's just trying to do something fun with the family, instead of just going in and kind of fall into hockey," Alfredsson said Wednesday. "I've talked to my wife about it a bit. I haven't thrown any hooks out there to see what's available or anything. But that's definitely something I'll start looking into, maybe in a couple of weeks.

"(Insurance) is not an issue at all. It's not that complicated, it wouldn't be that expensive. I'm just looking for an experience.

"Even if it's not the highest level, you still play, still practise. You have games and that makes it easier to push yourself in practice.

"I think if I do go that's a good indication that I'm looking to continue my career, as well."

Of the options, Alfredsson said, "There are some really beautiful cities in Europe. I can't say I know that much about the other leagues, either, that one is a better fit. We would find one where we could get schooling for the kids, activities for the kids, those kind of things will be a big factor."

And they do say the skiing is fantastic in Austria.

"In Italy and France there's skiing, too," said Alfredsson. "I don't know. I like skiing. The whole family skis. I don't know."