I can’t help but get emotional thinking about Steven McDonald. He meant so much to so many people. A humble and classy man who did so much for the community. This ceremony is already tear jerking. I have tears. I feel like I am there too.

My family is. I’m glad they could be part of it. We as New York Ranger fans are all part of the Steven McDonald family. This is so beautiful. His son Conor dropped a ceremonial first puck with emotional Mom Patricia Ann McDonald there watching with former Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award winners Mark Messier and Adam Graves on hand at center ice.

Instead of a moment of silence, they asked that the fans cheered because that’s how Steven would’ve wanted it. The connection to our city and the team is unreal. I think what Graves said during his speech at the service rings true. He was truly part of our extended family. Someone who went above and beyond the call of duty. I know he’s smiling down on everyone in the building tonight.

May the Rangers play a great game against the Maple Leafs.