The handshake line that concludes a Stanley Cup Playoff series is a cherished tradition in hockey, symbolizing respect and sportsmanship after fierce competition. It`s a display of empathy that stands out in a physically demanding sport.
However, the scene on Saturday night in Dallas, after the Stars defeated the Winnipeg Jets 2-1 in overtime, featured a post-series handshake that was particularly profound and poignant. It wasn`t solely the end of the Jets` season, which was disappointing for a team that had won the Presidents` Trophy and harbored serious ambitions of reaching the Western Conference Final and potentially the Stanley Cup.
The true weight of emotion stemmed from the personal tragedy affecting Mark Scheifele, the Jets` longest-serving player. Scheifele courageously played in Game 6 despite receiving the devastating news that morning that his father, Brad, had passed away back home in Ontario.
Remarkably, Scheifele scored Winnipeg`s only goal in the game. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, he was in the penalty box during overtime when Dallas defenseman Thomas Harley scored the winning slapshot at 1:33, securing the series victory for the Stars and sending them to their third consecutive conference final.
The post-game handshake line offered a powerful and touching moment as players and coaches from the Dallas Stars offered their condolences and support to Scheifele, acknowledging the immense personal grief he was navigating alongside the team`s defeat. This interaction highlighted the human element and mutual respect that exists even between rivals.
