Darryl Sittler, Lanny McDonald share their thoughts on Salming in his return to Toronto for the Hall of Fame festivities
Darryl Sittler is best known for his record 10-point night against Boston in 1976 and is one of the most beloved Leafs of all time. As he usually is, Sittler was part of the pre-game ceremony for the Hall of Fame weekend last night against the Penguins, where he was lined up next to Bjore Salming. Salming made what could be his final appearance in Toronto last night (one more coming tonight against Vancouver) before he travels back home to Sweden as he battles ALS and according to Sittler, it means more than fans could imagine to him and his family.
"In talking to his family, they said back in Sweden it's hard for him. A moment like this gives him some happiness, some hope ... They say they haven't seen him smile as much as he has this evening, which is awesome."
Lanny McDonald also touched on what an inspiration and what a warrior Borje is, not only to European players, but to North American players as well - playing through everything he had to endure over the years as a target around the league. McDonald even called Salming one of the top 5 or 6 defensemen in NHL history, stating that "He could do it all. He was fearless."
Sittler played with Salming from 1972-1983 with the Leafs. Unfortunately they weren't able to win a cup together as they had to go through the Islanders and Oilers during their dynasty years, but they still provided Leaf fans with many memorable moments. It was great to see Sittler and Mats Sundin line up beside Salming during the Hall of Fame introductions last night in what will surely be a memorable night for everyone involved.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 12 | 392 ANSWERS Darryl Sittler, Lanny McDonald share their thoughts on Salming in his return to Toronto for the Hall of Fame festivities Is Borje Salming a top-5 defenseman, all-time? | ||
| Yes | 305 | 77.8 % |
| Maybe not top-5, but certainly top-10 | 87 | 22.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
