#34 HAS to be in the rafters next season. Greatest goalie in Flames history, arguably the greatest player in Flames history, greatest Finnish goaltender of all time. Such a shame he doesn't have a cup ring to add to his resume.
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Playing for a different team, Kipper probably would have put up hall of fame numbers. It's unfortunate how we sometimes take things for granted. I am so thrilled that I've had the privilege of watching such an elite goalie. If this truly is your final season Kipper then thanks for all of the memories!
I am very happy Kipper won what might be his last game in the Saddledome, the ovation was awesome and certainly well deserved. If this is it, I am sorry Kiprusoff never got to win the Stanley Cup he deserves. You'll always be my favourite player Miikka, thanks for everything.
I wrote up something short on Kiprusoff earlier. I've edited it to fit this topic better, but this really summarizes best what I can say about #34:
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I'll admit it. I'm a Kiprusoffarian. I wear it on my chest. Literally. The jersey I own has his name on it, and not only because I'm a goaltender myself. I fully realize Iginla was the face of the franchise, but there's been no Flame so dedicated to winning, so deserving of having his name recognized as Kiprusoff.
There is an old saying: the hallmark of a good goaltender is to give your team a chance to win every night. He didn't just do that. He placed the team on his back. Each and every night to the degree that two players managed to mask a team's inadequacy outside those positions. Night in and night out. Ice for blood, superhuman reflexes and x-ray vision. Such were the tools on display every game for the marginally talented Flames. Such was what garnered many an undeserved ticket to the playoffs. Such is what gave them hope against titans like Lidstrom's Red Wings.
I feel lucky to have cheered for a team with such a dedicated player as Kiprusoff. Rarely do I remember him upset with the team. He just came in, competed to prop up the team as best he could, and left. Both players and fans alike can appreciate the level of dedication and tranquil intensity that was shown by the man between the pipes while simultaneously being wowed by highlight reel saves. We might have been spoiled by his presence. Scratch that. We HAVE been spoiled by the presence of a goaltender capable of what at some times seemed impossible.
There's nothing left to say - Thank you Kiprusoff. Thank you for the years of service to the Flames. For giving us hope when there wasn't much, or any, really.
It's been MY honour to be fans of you.
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I really hope Kipper is back next season. All the best to him if he isn't, my favorite flames. Always loved watching him play and he always seemed to amaze. Thanks Kiprusoff.
Please be back next season!!!
Couldn't catch the game, but judging from the highlights and the comments it sounds like he had an awesome game. He's still good enough for the NHL and should give it another year if his heart is in it.
I'd be really sad if he retires, but if he doesn't have the fire in the belly he definitely should hang up his skates for good.
