Canucks: Ian Cole backtracks on carrying Luc Bourdon's jersey quantity

Article content material

One of many latest Vancouver Canucks has skated again his request to put on his favorite jersey quantity after studying it was worn by Luc Bourdon.

Article content material

Defenceman Ian Cole requested to put on No. 28 after signing with the Canucks on Canada Day. It’s the quantity he’s worn all through his hockey life so he thought the request was routine.

Article content material

He says it was solely afterward he discovered it had been worn by Bourdon, the New Brunswick native who died in a tragic motorbike crash at simply 21 years of age and within the infancy of his profession within the NHL.

In a press release launched Saturday, Cole mentioned he modified his thoughts to honour Bourdon’s reminiscence.

“After I signed with the Vancouver Canucks, I used to be requested what quantity I wished,” wrote Cole within the assertion posted to the Canucks’ Fb web page. “I responded that I might like to put on No. 28, the quantity I’ve worn on my jersey since I used to be 12 years previous and principally my entire skilled profession.

Article content material

“When the choice was made public, I discovered the importance of the quantity. Whereas I didn’t know Luc nor did I do know he wore No. 28 with the Canucks, I actually bear in mind his heartbreaking story and tragic passing. Out of respect to him and to honour his reminiscence I’ve determined to vary my jersey quantity to No. 82.”

Cole, a 34-year-old who spent final season with Tampa Bay, signed a one-year, $3-million contract with Vancouver on the primary day of free company on July 1, together with fellow blue-liner Carson Soucy out of Seattle.

[email protected]