The New York Islanders had significant symbolism for Anthony Beauvillier even before draft day.
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In June 2015, the Islanders claimed Beauvillier with the 28th pick in the first round. As soon as he put on this jersey, the former Shawinigan Cataractes felt a special feeling.
“My father (Sylvain) was a fan of the Islanders growing up because of Mike Bossy, said Beauvillier two hours into the game against the Canadiens. It made me a fan of the Isles also by the gang. As soon as I put the sweater on, my dad told me it was like his idol, Mike. It was fun to hear my dad say that. I would say that fate arranged things well. »
To date, Beauvillier has never donned another NHL uniform. For his visit to the Bell Centre, the winger was playing his 404th game with the Islanders.
Beauvillier met Bossy three or four times in the team’s entourage.
“When we first met, I asked him to take a picture. We laughed since I told him he was my father’s favorite player. He told me he didn’t like it because it meant he was old. »
The Gods of Hockey
There are probably no coincidences in life. In the first game after Bossy’s death, the Islanders visited the Bell Center to face the Canadian.
In the eyes of Barry Trotz, this is probably not just a coincidence.
“I believe in the gods of hockey,” said the Islanders head coach. It’s a good thing since his career started in this province. He is seen as one of the many great French-Canadian goal scorers. It’s ironic that it happens on the day of a game between the Canadiens and the Islanders. We’ve had a few legendary deaths this year. Recently, we closed the Nassau Coliseum for good to go to UBS. And suddenly, legends of that time pass away. It is ironical. »
A gentleman
Captain of the Islanders, Anders Lee also paid tribute to number 22.
“Every time I would meet Mike, he was gracious, he was kind, and he was a phenomenal player. It looked easy to score goals when you watched him play. His presence with the Islanders meant a lot to us youngsters. We learned from him through small talk. It’s a sad day. »
“It’s a shame his career was cut short, because he would have continued to pile up such numbers. »