If you’re a Detroit Red Wings fan from the 1990’s, or a Calgary Flames fan from the 1980’s, you know who Mike Vernon is. Chances are you know who Mike Smith is too, just not as well, most likely.
Mike Smith is known mainly for his time as the starting goaltender for the Arizona Coyotes. For six regular seasons and one postseason appearance, Smith was the regular face in net for Arizona. He was traded to Calgary last summer and played in 55 games for the Flames in 2017-18. Calgary, much like Detroit, has a rich hockey history, which both include the aforementioned legend Vernon. Smith chose to honor him this season with his mask design. It’s pretty spectacular.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Boh784TBosQ/?utm_source=ig_embed
Teaser alert!!!! @NHLFlames Mike Smith https://t.co/3PeOq1yhuf
— David Arrigo (@darrigoart) October 4, 2018
“I think it’s so cool,” Vernon told the Flames website. “I’ve always said that history is so important, in any business, but nowhere more than in the sports business.
“I don’t think he’s honoring me. I think he’s honoring the past; that’s what’s important.”
It was painted by David Arrigo. Not only is the design based off of Vernon’s mask from 1982-94, but it features Vernon’s hair and ears on either side, as well as his #41 on the back. This was a really awesome way to honor one of the greats, and Vernon is obviously humbled by it.
Mike Vernon is a 2 time Stanley Cup Champion (1989 – CGY, 1997 – DET), a 5 time All-Star player, and the 1997 Conn Smythe winner.
BONUS CONTENT
JUST IN: Little Caesars Arena making sweeping change thanks to attendance
If you watched the Detroit Red Wings’ home opener last week, a thought may have occurred to you. “Why on Earth are there so many empty seats in the lower bowl?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone, I had the exact same thought. It must have been apparent to others at Little Caesars Arena as well, because they’re making a sweeping change.
To view the rest of this content, follow the link below!
https://detroitsportsnation.com/detroit-red-wings-news/nwebb/little-caesars-arena-making-sweeping-change-attendance/10-2018/196939/
