Leafs legend Mats Sundin touches on the Leafs starting an all-Swedish starting lineup in honour of Borje Salming
This past weekend marked the annual Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Weekend. Held in Toronto, the Leafs played a back-to-back against the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Vancouver Canucks with many hockey legends in attendance. One, in particular, the guest of honour, was Borje Salming, who is currently battling ALS.
On the second half of the back-to-back, the Leafs paid tribute to Salming in what could be his last trip to Toronto. In his honour, the Leafs opted to start an all-Swedish starting lineup, with William Nylander and Vancouver's Oliver Ekman-Larsson facing off for the ceremonial puck drop. The players slotting in alongside Nylander were Calle Jarnkrok, Pierre Engvall, Rasmus Sandin, Timothy Liljegren, and, of course, Swedish netminder Erik Kallgren.
After the game, Leafs all-time leading point-getter and fellow Swede, Mats Sundin, spoke to the impact of this heartwarming decision by head coach Sheldon Keefe.
Sundin and Salming have a close relationship, where Sundin, like most Swedish players, credits Salming for the significant impact he has had on his career. Throughout his life, Salming has always supported players with the same background as him, both new and older generations.
The tribute to Salming was touching to all hockey fans and we are all behind him. Salming is a key contributor in the Leafs' rich history and recognizing everything he has done for the game was a true sign of respect and appreciation.
This weekend was all about Borje, reflecting on what was a stellar career and celebrating a man who not only succeeded, but excelled with the odds stacked against him. The Leafs organization absolutely did Saturday's tribute to Borje justice.
We continue to send our thoughts and prayers to Borje and his family in hopes that he continues to get the best treatment and care, as the entire hockey world is behind him in his current battle with ALS.
