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Senators plan ‘very special anthem’ for first home game since shootings

Colorado Avalanche v Ottawa Senators

OTTAWA, ON - MARCH 16: Chris Phillips #4, Cody Ceci #5, Bobby Ryan #6, Kyle Turris #7 and Clarke MacArthur #16 of the Ottawa Senators look on during the singing of the national anthems prior to an NHL game against the Colorado Avalanche during an NHL game at Canadian Tire Centre on March 16, 2014 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images)

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Plenty of NHL teams have pledged their support to people in the Ottawa area (and Canada in general) following this week’s tragic shootings, but it could be an especially emotional night when the Senators host the New Jersey Devils on Saturday.

Senators president Cyril Leeder told the Ottawa Citizen about the many ways they’ll pay tribute to those who were affected by the events, particularly Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, who died as a result of the attacks. Leeder hopes that the Senators can assist the healing process in “some small way.”

As part of that healing, Leeder promises a moment’s silence, a special pre-game ceremony as well as a “very special anthem presentation.”

From more thorough searches to an increased presence from military and police, Leeder also notes that security will be ramped up as well.

“I think, like everybody else, we’ll be more vigilant,” Leeder said.

The Senators stood behind the league’s decision to postpone Wednesday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs to Nov. 9.

Here’s video of the Penguins’ tribute from last night:

The Boston Bruins were among the teams showing support for Canada tonight:

Not surprisingly, the Calgary Flames also joined in.

If these tributes are any indication, it could be a very emotional scene on Saturday.

(H/T to The Score.)

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins