Senators lose star, acquire star in NHL’s busy day

Daniel Alfredsson bolted from the Ottawa Senators to sign with the Detroit Red Wings, sensing that was the best move he could make in his drive to win a championship before his career ends.

“It’s all about trying to get the Stanley Cup,” he said.

It is for Jarome Iginla, too.

Iginla signed a one-year deal with the Eastern Conference champion Boston Bruins on Friday night.

The longtime Calgary Flames and short-time Pittsburg Penguins forward will make $1.8 million guaranteed and can make up to $6 million with Boston.

The Senators, refusing to settle after losing Alfredsson, responded with a bold move to acquire Bobby Ryan from the Anaheim Ducks.

NHL teams made a big splash on the first day of free agency with a slew of signings and some trades.

Less than a year after the league’s latest lockout, many teams spent big bucks on free agents despite knowing they will have to deal with a smaller salary cap next season.

The Columbus Blue Jackets were among the big spenders, signing Nathan Horton to a $37.1 million, seven-year contract.

Soon after adding Alfredsson, the Red Wings agreed to terms on a $24.5 million, five-year contract with 30-year-old center Stephen Weiss.

The Toronto Maple Leafs also made a statement by signing New Jersey Devils forward David Clarkson to a $36.75 million, seven-year deal and keeping first-line center Tyler Bozak with a $21 million, five-year deal.