Canucks defenceman Ian Cole releases statement following backlash over number choice
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.
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