An emotional Borje Salming honoured with massive standing ovation from Leafs Nation
Borje Salming is a legend in every sense of the word. He was one of the very first Swedish players in the NHL and the first ever Swedish star. He dispelled the myth that all Europeans are soft - in fact, he was one of the toughest players in the NHL. In his 16 seasons with the Leafs, Salming scored 768 points, leading all Leafs defensemen in goals, assists and points, a franchise record that still stands. Not only is he a hero in Toronto, he's an icon in Sweden, helping to pave the way for others to make the move to the NHL.
Tragically, Salming was diagnosed with ALS in February of this year. It is an incurable disease that attacks the nervous system. His body is fit and his brain knows what it wants, but the disease stops the signal from being sent. For someone who's stayed as fit as Salming, it must be a truly awful way to spend his later years.
Thankfully, Salming's doctors in Sweden cleared him to travel to Toronto for the Hall of Fame induction game on Friday night. When they called Salming's name during the pre-game ceremony, Scotiabank Arena erupted into a massive standing ovation. With the help of former teammate Darryl Sittler, Salming was able to wave to the cheering Toronto crowd. Both Sittler and Salming were brought to tears during the ovation, along with many watching in the building or at home.
It was a truly special moment, but heartbreaking all the same. Salming will be in attendance for Saturday's matchup against the Canucks as well for what will likely be his final farewell to the Leafs, the fans and the city of Toronto.
| POLL | ||
11 NOVEMBRE | 311 ANSWERS An emotional Borje Salming honoured with massive standing ovation from Leafs Nation Did Salming and Sitter's reactions to the roaring ovation tug on your heartstrings? | ||
| Yes | 294 | 94.5 % |
| No - I'm not human | 17 | 5.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
