That was the word recently given to Heinze's agent. Not that Heinze took No. 57 because he wanted to be a ketchup purveyor. When I was 9 or 10 and he figured I could play a little bit, he said, 'You know, if you ever make it to the show you've got to wear No. 57. Heinze asked for No. 57 when he played at Boston College, he asked for No. 57 when he played for the U.S. Olympic team and he asked for No. 57 when he played for the Boston Bruins. He was turned down at every turn.
Hockey is a game of tradition.
The crest on the front of a jersey should be a symbol of pride. Those who wear the sweater should feel the weight of being an NHL player. The number on the back should be a point of honor. The numbers are often identified with someone who has come before, and the proper homage should be paid to their memory. Those who want to wear a number not identified with anyone are either really good or a little too big for their britches.