Fitting Tribute for Markus Naslund: Once a Canuck, Always a Canuck

After months of build-up and ceremony speculation, Markus Naslund's No. 19 was sent to the rafters of Vancouver's Rogers Arena.  It was a night full of emotion, touching video tributes and speeches that pulled on the heart strings.  The Vancouver Canucks organization deserves a lot of credit for putting on this incredible ceremony.

Mike Gillis, current general manager and the former agent of Markus Naslund, spoke about Markus' incredible desire to better his game and become a true National Hockey League player.  The talent was apparent from his early days in Vancouver.  Although Markus threatened to return to Sweden in the beginning, Mike knew that there was too much potential within the dangling left winger. 

In Markus' first season in Vancouver, many fans could see that he was going to be a great Canuck for years to come.  He tallied 21 goals in 78 games during the '95-'96 season and it looked like the sky was the limit.

Over the next few seasons, Naslund's stats continued to rise and his play continued to get better.  In 2003, Markus led the Canucks with a massive 104-point season.  While the playoff success didn't follow, Naslund and the West Coast Express left the fans of the Vancouver Canucks with memories that will last a lifetime. 

Everyone remembers Markus' great shot, calm demeanor, and great community attitude.  He was the kind of captain that every team in the league would love to have.  He wasn't the most vocal guy nor was the most intimidating guy.  Instead, Markus was skilled and he lead by example both on and off the ice.  He made the players around him better and that can't be forgotten.

During his career he touched many lives.  The fans of Vancouver will be forever grateful for what he brought to this city—excitement.  The way he brought fans out of their seats wasn't felt since Pavel Bure.  Markus gave the fans of Vancouver reason to believe.

For all of these reasons, Markus' No. 19 was retired in Vancouver. 

There was a lot of debate about whether or not he should have his number with the likes of Stan Smyl and Trevor Linden, both of whom led their teams to the Stanley Cup Finals.  However, when you consider that Markus Naslund is the all-time leader in goals and points for the Canucks, there is no question that his number should be up there.

With 756 points in 884 games as a Canuck, Markus was one of the most consistent scorers in team history.  His influence continues to touch the team regardless of his absence from the locker room.  The Sedin twins can attest to that.

His 8 seasons as captain were some of the most exciting years in Vancouver hockey history.  With teams that looked as though they could challenge for Lord Stanley's prize, Naslund played with confidence and the kind of poise not seen often enough.  He was a true ambassador to the game. 

As the ceremony went on, it was hard to watch Markus Naslund hold back tears. 

The Vancouver Canucks organization invited people like Pat Quinn, Brian Burke, Trevor Linden and Stan Smyl to witness the event.  The group of people on the ice cheering for Naslund was something special to witness.  It was Naslund's night, and they were there for him. 

It wasn't a coincidence that this event was scheduled on the night that the Tampa Bay Lightning came to town.  Mattias Ohlund, a member of the Lightning, was one of Markus' best friends during his time in Vancouver.  Having his presence in the ceremony and in the building brought back so many memories to the fans.  That was evidenced by their reception for him during one of the commercial breaks.

Although the result may not have been the best for the Canucks or their fans, there is no doubt that everyone walked out happy.  It was the sort of night that everyone will remember for the rest of their lives.  The emotion in the building was palpable and everything just fell into place. 

From now on, no member of the Vancouver Canucks will ever wear the number 19.  That jersey belongs to Markus Naslund.  He is a Canuck for life. 

Thank you to Markus, his family and everyone involved in the ceremony for making this night so special. 

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