NHL players mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II while showing deep appreciation for everything she did, especially for NHL
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NHL remembers moments spent with Queen Elizabeth II
The year 2022 was very special for NHL as Queen Elizabeth II participated in the ceremonial puck event with players Mike Ricci and Markus Naslund. But we can’t forget “The Great One” who stood beside him for the event and grinned as widely as he could.
Former NHL player but then captain of San Jose Sharks, Ricci said that he clearly remembers the day the Queen stepped onto the ice. It was such a presence that nobody in the arena will ever forget. Ricci further said that before the ceremony began, the protocols were read to them, and he clearly remembers it like it was just yesterday.
Mike Ricci, Markus Naslund, and Wayne Gretzky recall the memory from the year 2022
Ricci told, “I was told to wear new gloves, in case the Queen wanted to shake hands. She didn’t”. “And I put in my teeth. There were some bets that I’d make a scene, but I think I did OK.” Later Naslund narrated the story remembering every bit of it.
He noted, “We were told not to skate directly at the Queen”. “Speak to her only if spoken to. It was agreed that I’d pick up the puck and give it to her. And we were told there were armed guards in the stands.” Though little did these protocols matter to these gentlemen who were already jumping up and down with excitement within themselves.
Ricci even noted, “I scored two goals that night, so the Queen was good luck”. It was last in 1951 that Queen Elizabeth II visited an NHL game and he again stepped on the ice in 2022. She’s been the regal guest of honor for the pregame at Vancouver’s GM Place on October 6, 2022.
That night, Wayne Gretzky stood behind Her Majesty, enjoying and relishing every bit of it. He told the reporters, “It was great for Canada to be able to show off one of the things we love most”. “She truly enjoyed watching the game.” The Queen was obviously beloved to all of NHL but especially to the Canadiens. She’s placed herself in a special spot in their heart.
On her passing away, the NHL released the following statement, “The National Hockey League mourns the passing and celebrates the remarkable life of Queen Elizabeth II. She held a special place in the hearts of Canadians and, during her 70-year-reign, connected with our game in memorable ways.”
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Kaushani Chatterjee
(2192 Articles Published)