Canucks defenceman Ian Cole releases statement following backlash over number choice

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Cooper Godin
July 8, 2023 (11:55 PM)

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Earlier this week, the Vancouver Canucks announced what numbers their three big free agent acquisitions will wear for the 2023-24 season.

Defenceman Carson Soucy went with #7 and forward Teddy Blueger kept his usual #53, which was previously worn by Bo Horvat. But it was Ian Cole's choice that took fans by surprise and caused some outrage.

Cole decided to go with #28, which he's worn for the majority of his National Hockey League career. But Canucks fans weren't happy with that decision because #28 has not been worn by any player in Vancouver since Luc Bourdon in 2008. Bourdon passed away in May 2008 after a motorcycle accident.

On Saturday, Cole released a statement through the Canucks' Twitter account to say that he has decided to change to #82 out of respect for Bourdon and to honour him.

"When I signed with the Vancouver Canucks, I was asked what number I wanted. I responded that I would love to wear #28, the number I've worn on my jersey since I was 12 and basically my whole professional career. When the selection was made public, I found out the significance of the number. While I did not know Luc nor did I know he wore #28 with the Canucks, I certainly remember his heartbreaking story and tragic passing. Out of respect to him and to honour his memory I have decided to change by jersey number to #82." Cole said.

Cole, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and veteran of 13 NHL seasons, signed a one-year contract worth $3 million USD with the Vancouver Canucks on July 1st.