Tigers can’t forget about Linden; hockey fans haven’t

The Medicine Hat Tigers retired former great Tom Lysiak’s number last weekend at the Canalta Centre but with it being only the second Tiger number retired, why hasn’t Medicine Hat’s own Trevor Linden’s jersey been raised yet?
This is the second number retired by the Tigers next to his famous line mate Lanny McDonald, who went on to have an illustrious career with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Calgary Flames where he won the Stanley Cup. The Tigers have had a lot of greats including the likes of Chris Osgood, Ken Holland, Kelly Hrudey and Linden, who won consecutive Memorial Cups and produced 110 points in his last season in the Hat. Being a big Linden fan since a young age, it’s surprising that a local star hasn’t been mentioned lately with his hometown club in regards to his number being raised to the rafters. This is a player who wore his heart on his sleeve game in and game out, while showing tremendous leadership qualities with his hard work and determination on the ice, eventually earning him the captaincy with the Canucks at age 21. He led them to within one victory of the Stanley Cup in 1994 but fell to the New York Rangers in Game 7. He unfortunately didn’t get back there as he was bounced around the league before retiring in 2008 as a Canuck. He changed the image of hockey in this city with his passion and being a role model for future generations of players. He played for the Tigers at young age and making an immediate impact in the NHL. All these successes make him the next tabby to be honoured. The Tigers should consider retiring his number because the Canalta Centre doesn’t look right without his number hanging. It would be a monumental night to celebrate an iconic player. Don’t wait, Tigers!

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