Paul Kariya’s Jersey Retirement
On October 21, 2018 Ducks Nation laughed, cried, and rejoiced as Paul Kariya‘s number nine was finally raised to the rafters. Two legends will now be memorized in Honda Center’s rafters forever. It was a moment that we had all been waiting for, and it didn’t disappoint.
That night we were reminded of the bright-eyed teenage boy whose dream became a reality when he was the first player drafted by the Mighty Ducks organization 25 years ago.
His fellow teammates took us back in time as we reminisced about watching him grow into the incredible NHL star that took the Anaheim Ducks by storm. It seemed only fitting that his jersey would be the second number to be retired by the franchise.
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Paul Kariya is a huge reason why many of us fell in love with hockey and the Anaheim Ducks. His departure was sorrowful, but the mark he left on the organization will be remembered for generations to come.
As he walked down the stage and down the black carpet, many of our eyes welled with emotion. We stared in wide-eyed wonder as the beautiful eggplant and jade banner bearing Paul Kariya’s number was raised to the heavens.
As it was slowly lifted to the rafters, for a moment time seemed frozen. A legend stood before us, all of his greatest accomplishments staring us in the face. He is a living testament that you can achieve what you set your mind to.
You just need to have courage, passion, be humble, and always be kind. His nine season with the Anaheim Ducks had a tremendous impact on the franchise. Now, as long as Honda Center stands, every time we step into the building we will be reminded of one of the Mightiest Ducks in franchise history.
What was your favorite Anaheim Ducks moment of 2018? There are plenty to choose from! Let us know by leaving a comment down below!