#21 Peter Forsberg joins #19 Joe Sakic, #33 Patrick Roy and #77 Ray Bourque in the rafters tonight, and as a longtime Avs fan this is simply a night of joy. I have been an Avs fan since they moved to Colorado, seen the good (2 cups, scoring titles etc) and bad (leg and groin injuries) of Peter's career, but what a fitting end to see #21 retired to the rafters. Forsberg was truly one of the alltime greats that played our game, one that was limited by injuries but never seemed to overshadow how good he was. Forsberg's list of accomplishments include the Calder Trophy in 1995, Art Ross and Hart Memorial Trophy in 2003, and most importantly 2 Stanley Cups in 1996 and 2001. While Peter's career was certainly limited by injuries, the Swedish forward deserves to be in the HOF and certainly will get a look when he becomes eligible in 3 years. For now, Avs fans can rejoice and watch his number being retired to the Pepsi Centre rafters, joining a truly elite cast. Fellow Swedish forward (and 2nd overall pick) Gabriel Landeskog will be playing his first NHL game, the 18 year old who grew up idolizing Peter, “He was definitely my No. 1 idol,” Landeskog said. “He meant a lot for the game back home, going over here—he won the scoring title, won Stanley Cups, that sort of thing.
“His will to win was tremendous. I’m very excited for this night to come. It’s going to be a special one, for sure.” All Avs fans will be eager to see Landeskog play tonight, but truly this is Peter Forsberg's night and one to remember for everyone. Thank you Peter, you were truly and inspiration and amazing player to watch and what a fitting end to have #21 retired to the rafters.
-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News
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