Feb 27, 2018
A nostalgic look back at my favorite hockey heroes and legends who wore the red, white and blue for the Rangers during the 1960's, 70's and 80's.
In this Bonus Episode, we look back at Jean Ratelle night at MSG this past Sunday evening, February, 25th 2018. During this historic, sentimental and long overdue ceremony, the "Greatest" homegrown center in Rangers history and NHL Hall of Famer( member of the NHL Top 100 players ever club) has his number 19 retired and lifted to the MSG rafters alongside other Rangers greats.
*Only the ninth Ranger to have his Jersey Retired joining :
#1 Eddie Giacomin
#2 Brian Leetch
#3- Harry Howell
#7 Rod Gilbert
#9 Andy Bathgate and Adam Graves
# 11 Mark Messier
#35 Mike Richter
*Eloquent and heartfelt speeches by former "GAG "( Goal a Game ) Linemates Vic Hadfield and Hall of Famer Rod Gilbert as well as former GM and Coach Emile "The Cat " Francis
* Former teammates, Hall of Famers Eddie Giacomin and Brad Park( member of the NHL top 100 players ever club), Steve Vickers, Bob Plager, Rod Seiling, Gilles Villemure, Ted Irvine, Pete Stemkowski and Bob Nevin, were there to support and Honor Jean Ratelle
* Other Ranger Greats on hand were Mark Messier, Adam Graves, Brian Leetch and Mike Richter
* Jean Ratelle's expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Rangers organization, former teammates, and fans with the class and dignity that exemplified his legacy of excellence with the Rangers and Bruins both on and off the ice.
* The Evening's Surprise came with the unexpected announcement that Vic Hadfield will also have his Number 11 retired next season during a special evening at MSG.
* Please find my comprehensive Jean Ratelle career highlight in my Episode # 2 podcast notes