Your Ottawa Senators are back in black.

The Sens are launching a new third-jersey look this Saturday, when former Ottawa defenceman Wade Redden and the New York Rangers visit Scotiabank Place for a 3 p.m. afternoon affair.
It will feature a colour that remains a big favourite among the Sens Army faithful.

“We looked at a couple of different colours in terms of considering designs,” said Jeff Kyle, the Senators’ vice-president of marketing. “The feedback we received indicated black was the preferred choice, so we went in that direction.”

The Senators last unveiled a black third jersey before the 2000-01 season.

New this time, though, are laces that tie together at the collar – a Senators first. It’s the ultimate in retro jersey styling.

“Doing that distinguishes it from the other jerseys that we’ve had in the past,” said Kyle.

Captain Daniel Alfredsson said he likes “the mix of retro and new design. It really stands out. You can tell it’s just not a copy from a retro jersey.

“You still have the new with the logo and everything.”

The third jersey also features distinctive red, black and white striping on the arms and socks, with the word “Sens” running up to the right.

“These are unbelievable,” said alternate captain Dany Heatley. “Just everything about it: the colours, the design, the Sens (word) across the front.

“We all like it and I hope the fans do, too.”

Added alternate captain Chris Phillips: “This one is at the top of the list. Of all the jerseys (I’ve worn as a Senator), this is the best-looking one so far.”

Black will be the colour of choice for the Senators on 14 more occasions at home this season. Included are the Sens’ next four appearances at Scotiabank Place: Nov. 27 (vs. Toronto), Dec. 3 (vs. Atlanta), Dec. 6 (vs. Pittsburgh) and Dec. 8 (vs. Florida).