Fans sneak peek of NHL legends ahead of Heritage Classic Alumni game
Jets, Oilers greats from days of old will face off outdoors Saturday at Investors Group Field
On Friday, Winnipeg Jets and Edmonton Oilers stars from the days of old gave hockey fans at the MTS Centre a sneak peek of what's in store Saturday during the Heritage Classic Alumni game.
Former Oilers captain Mark Messier said it was exciting to be back in an Edmonton colours on Winnipeg ice.
Messier, the record-holder for most combined regular and playoff games played in NHL history, said it was great to revisit the early days of his career.
"Winnipeg brings back a lot of great memories for me, starting my professional career here," Messier said, adding his first NHL game took place in Winnipeg.
He said running drills across the ice from so many old Jets brought back memories of on-ice wars.
"I just remember them being a formidable foe," Messier said. "Every time we'd come in here we knew we were going to get a hard game — and sure enough we did."
After the practice Friday, former Jets superstar Dale Hawerchuk reflected on what it means to have a Jets franchise back in Winnipeg — and what it meant to see the first incarnation leave the city for Phoenix in 1996.
"I think when the team left, guys that played here before, it took a piece of their heart away," Hawerchuk said. "Now we're all so grateful that we have this opportunity to come back."
Hawerchuk will don the captain "C" Saturday when the Jets legends step on the ice and take on Oilers alumni.
He said one thing people often forget about the 1980s-era squad is how many players lived in Winnipeg year-round, and how their families formed deep connections with the city.
"They were a real part of the community. A lot of kids were born here, my first was born here, a lot of wives are from here, so it's still a special place for them," he said.
As for the fans in the stands, Adam Clements said it was important for him to bring his son, Seth Clements, to the Friday practice and weekend of events.
"To see him see the old guys and what they've represented and brought back to the game, it's what I want to see him grow up to be," Adam said.
Meanwhile Seth, already a lover of the game at 10, said he is looking forward to watching Teemu "The Finnish Flash" Selanne in the flesh.
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"My mom's favourite player was Selanne, so I'd like to cheer him on with my mom, with my whole family," he said.
