Despite all of the Bono/ old jokes made at his expense, I have unending respect for Teppo Numminen. The 20 year veteran just announced his retirement, and though it seemed like an inevitable decision now that he's 41, the game will miss him. I think I speak on behalf of all Sabres/Coyotes/Jets/Stars/Finnish National Team fans when I say he was a great player, person, and ambassador for hockey. Always calm, always a trooper. Despite not being a final three nominee for this past year's Masterton Trophy, I don't think he needed an award to earn the respect that comes with having your ribcage broken open to undergo heart surgery, only to return to the game and be the steady influence he has been for two decades.
Teppo, my favorite Finnish player, the NHL's European ironman, best of luck in the future.
-Michael
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