https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkbO09fEeOU

Today’s video edition features Martin St. Louis. I can’t imagine what he’s going through with the loss of Mom France. Yesterday, he showed up and played an emotional Game 5. Clearly, it inspired his teammates, who delivered a dominant 5-1 win over the Pens to avoid elimination.

They weren’t ready to pack it in. Neither was St. Louis, who didn’t have to play. After discussing it with his Dad, he chose to because it’s what his Mom would’ve wanted. That kind of heart and leadership goes a long way. There’s no doubt it’s been a challenging time for him. He handled it with class.

Following the win, Marc Staal presented St. Louis with the Broadway Hat. In what can best be described as a very emotional scene, every teammate came up and tapped him on the helmet when they came off the ice. In the locker room, you could see what it meant to Marty. He teared up. Who wouldn’t? It was something we rarely see. Sometimes, we forget that these athletes are just like us. They experience the same pain and heartache. I’m still emotional thinking about it.

St. Louis flew back to Montreal to pick up his Dad and sister to fly them into New York to see Game 6 at Madison Square Garden. Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. He’ll have strong support from his loving family on what will be another emotional day. The Rangers host the Pens at 7 PM. They have a golden opportunity to send the series back to Pittsburgh for Game 7. First, they must follow up their effort in Game 5 with another for 60 minutes. Do that and all the pressure will be on Pittsburgh.

It only would seem appropriate if St. Louis scored tomorrow. You know his Mom will be watching. Here’s hoping he gets the game winner.