[ForeverFlameFan]

A day prior to the final game of the 2013-14 season, the players arrived at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. The gear was nowhere to be found and likely backed up in traffic. Now, pre-practice/pre-game time is for each player to prepare himself — everything from taping sticks to limbs. The equipment guys unload and set up the gear. It’s a well-oiled machine and everyone has a job to do. When the bags finally arrived, Flames staff started unloading. It was an overwhelming sight and quickly became evident practice would not begin on time. Cue Chris Butler.

Butler didn’t holler for the rest of the team to follow him to the loading dock. He simply started hauling whatever cumbersome item he could unload. He definitely didn’t plan on anyone watching (but remember, media lurks!). Soon enough, the entire team was lined up at the cargo bus passing bags in an assembly line. Game 82 and still checked in. Butler exemplifies again and again his silent, unsung leadership. A true defenseman on and off the ice; hard work on the back end and behind the scenes. No glory.

I want Chris Butler.