Plenty of NHL teams have pledged their support to people in the Ottawa area (and Canada in general) following this week’s tragic shootings, but it could be an especially emotional night when the Senators host the New Jersey Devils on Saturday.
Senators president Cyril Leeder told the Ottawa Citizen about the many ways they’ll pay tribute to those who were affected by the events, particularly Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, who died as a result of the attacks. Leeder hopes that the Senators can assist the healing process in “some small way.”
As part of that healing, Leeder promises a moment’s silence, a special pre-game ceremony as well as a “very special anthem presentation.”
From more thorough searches to an increased presence from military and police, Leeder also notes that security will be ramped up as well.
“I think, like everybody else, we’ll be more vigilant,” Leeder said.
The Senators stood behind the league’s decision to postpone Wednesday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs to Nov. 9.
Here’s video of the Penguins’ tribute from last night:
The Boston Bruins were among the teams showing support for Canada tonight:
Not surprisingly, the Calgary Flames also joined in.
#CanadaStrong pic.twitter.com/mPGFOCr5ZM
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) October 24, 2014
If these tributes are any indication, it could be a very emotional scene on Saturday.