Monday afternoon, news of tragedy broke. In Toronto, a van struck pedestrians, killing 10 and injuring many more. This hit exceptionally close to home in the hockey world, as the Maple Leafs played Monday night at the Air Canada Centre in Game Six of their series against the Boston Bruins.
The Leafs paid tribute to the victims of the attack, holding a moment of silence before the national anthems. But what happened during “O, Canada” was an emotional show of strength and togetherness.
The moment of silence occurs at the beginning of the video. “O, Canada” comes at the 2:15 mark.
Messages of support came in from across the hockey community, sending Toronto their thoughts.
Very sad to hear about the horrific news out of Toronto today. Thoughts and Prayers to everyone involved. This just shouldn’t happen in our world, my heart is heavy.
— Matt Stajan (@MattStajan18) April 24, 2018
It’s a sad day for Toronto. I’m devastated by the murders on our streets today. Innocent blood has been shed. My prayers go out to all those affected by this act of violence. Let’s take care of each other and keep our city safe. Love each other. #TorontoStrong
— Rich Clune (@richclune) April 24, 2018
Our thoughts are with all of those affected by today’s tragedy. We stand with the City of Toronto during this difficult time.
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) April 23, 2018
We are Toronto. pic.twitter.com/7SQphtidDb
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) April 23, 2018
Good anthem on a bad day. Love you, Toronto.
— Bruce Arthur (@bruce_arthur) April 23, 2018
Mitch Marner scored the game-winning goal, after backhanding a shot past Tuukka Rask in the second period.
“This world is made for loving each other and making each other better, and the things that have been happening this last year are unfortunate,” Marner said after the game according to TSN Sports’ Kristen Shilton. “We have to stop them some way, somehow. It was a big win for us after an emotional day.”
Hockey may matter a lot less than life and death. But it inarguably can be powerful. The Leafs won Monday, 3-1, to force a Game Seven with the Bruins.
.@CarltonTheBear x @Marner93 pic.twitter.com/jjPX7mUfRi
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) April 24, 2018
