Just like last season, the Detroit Red Wings had a lone representative at the NHL All-Star weekend. Last year was defenseman Mike Green; this year and for the third time in his career, goaltender Jimmy Howard represented Detroit.
A couple nice saves from our guy Jimmy Howard! #NHLAllStar #LGRW pic.twitter.com/fh6XlZYPTL
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) January 27, 2019
“It was a lot of fun,” Howard said after the game at SAP Center. “It was nice to make some saves. I just think the whole weekend, it’s been so cool, especially with my family being here, with my boys. It’s been really special. It’s going to be one of those moments that we’ll be able to share for the rest of our lives.”
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Howard’s sons James IV, 7, and Henry, 4, appreciated the atmosphere as well and also had a chance to take photos with some of the NHL’s top stars, including Toronto’s Auston Matthews.
“I think just talking to the guys,” Howard said of his sons’ favorite part of the weekend. “Henry’s pretty hopped up on sugar right now so his mouth’s just running in there. Hopefully he’s not bugging anyone too much right now.”
“Whenever you get to play in one of these games it’s special and it’s a great way to honor your organization and your teammates,” Howard said. “And because I am getting older, it was really awesome to be here and talk to guys that I’ve played with before and make new friends.”
Some of the top moments during Howard’s time in net were stopping Pittsburgh’s Sidney Crosby and Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux on breakaway attempts. While Howard has been to the SAP Center several times, including several playoff games, it doesn’t get any less special playing in an intimidating atmosphere.
“I love playing here,” Howard said. “Even in the playoffs it was awesome how loud this building would get. I remember it just being deafening. They love their Sharks. It’s a cool place to play.”
