He’s arguably the best two-way forward to ever wear the uniform of the Vancouver Canucks, Ryan Kesler planning to return to Van-city for Sedin Night.
Love him or hate him, for 10 straight seasons, Ryan Kesler put his heart and soul into the Vancouver Canucks organization. He was the perfect “Vancouver villain”, a heck of a player, and in his prime, he was arguably one of the best two-way forwards in the game of hockey.
He was a vital piece to the cup run of 2011, an impact player on a powerhouse team, and the ultimate pest that you sure liked to have on your side of the fight. His 200-foot game nothing short of elite status, a defensive forward who potted 41 goals during his career-year. A player, Bo Horvat probably strives to one day become.
Once a fan-favourite and thought by many to be a future Ring of Honour guarantee, Kesler’s reputation took a serious hit in 2014 when he demanded a trade out of town. Many die-hards thought Kesler would lead the next group of young talent, but instead, he headed for warmer weather in Anaheim and a chance to chase the cup playing for the Ducks.
The fans felt cheated and when Kesler made his return to Rogers Arena, surprisingly the fans heavily booed him every time he touched the puck, but no one was as surprised as Kesler himself. He said the return was “weird” and over the years he’s often expressed how much it hurt to hear the boo’s reign down in Vancouver.
Despite all the initial hatred towards Kesler, according to Thomas Drance of the Athletic, the former Selke Trophy winner fully intends to be in attendance for the Sedin twins’ jersey retirement night. He must be excited to see his friends, the Sedin twins get their big night, but it must leave him wondering, “How will Canucks fans welcome me back to Vancouver this time?”
It’s without a doubt, Kesler was a great player for the Canucks. In my opinion, he’s a bonafide future Ring of Honour candidate and he deserves to be welcomed back with open arms. He was gifted athletically and he had a tremendous work ethic. He single-handedly won us a pivotal playoff series against Nashville and the cup run may have never happened without him.
Kesler: I really cherished the time I had in Vancouver. Looking back, the teammates, the fans & the time was an unbelievable ride and I'm thankful I had the chance to play in Canadian market with passionate fans.
— Sportsnet 650 (@Sportsnet650) March 6, 2019
Kesler has recently explained why he decided to move on from Vancouver and at the end of the day can you really blame the guy? When all is said and done, Kesler’s best years were played in a Canucks uniform and every single time he put on that jersey, he wore it with pride and played to the best of his ability. If you ask me, Ryan Kesler will always be a Vancouver Canuck, and if you’re a true fan of this hockey club, he’ll get the warm welcome he deserves.