So after the game, a few of us decided to drown our sorrows over at ESPN Zone. We came across the guy highlighted above, who was good enough to allow us some photo fun at his expense. I noticed after the game that downtown was littered with tons of Nuck fans, many of which were in town just for game 4. That’s one of the drawbacks with having a few nice hotels right next to Staples, especially on a weeknight after a loss. The opposing team’s fans take over!
Anyway, the night was apparently just getting started… I figured I’d have one beer and head home, but downstairs, McSorley and McNall were doing a Q&A inside the main hall. We decided to check it out and sure enough, I was able to land us a table front and center.
The most interesting revelation came from Marty toward the end of the session. A fan asked if he talks to the players much. His answer, and I’m paraphrasing here…
“No I don’t. I’m not welcome in the locker room. Dean has made it clear he wants a separation between the old players and new.” He went on to say how much he wishes he could impart advice to the younger guys and feels that he, and other former players, could play a positive role in the organization. Needless to say, I was pretty surprised at just how candid his answer was and I tend to agree with him. He talked about a number of things where I believe his playoff experience could help our current roster. I wish I followed up with a question about Gretzky’s open invitation to be a part of the organization, which seems to contradict what Marty said.
After the Q&A, I got my 1993 playoff hat signed by Marty and Bruce. Only took 17 years! Got some pictures too, which I’ll put up later.
ESPN was closing shop, so we headed over to the Yard House for one final beverage. On the way in, we came across Daryl Evans. That guy really gets around! He seems to be everywhere. After a couple of questions, I grabbed us yet another lucky table because it just so happened that sitting right next to us, eating some grub with a couple of buddies, was none other than… Brad Richardson. After he was done eating, he was kind enough to take a picture with us. We thanked him for his excellent play this season and he asked us to please continue to support the team. You better believe it Brad! All in all, a pretty cool night despite a painful loss.
Love the story. Great fun. Back in the Forum days the gathering spot was the Melody Bar in Westchester.
Players from both teams would show, except after the Flyers games only the Bullies showed.