The spectacular NHL All-Star Game 2011 proved to be a game worth while waiting for. As the Raleigh centre roared with excitement and support for their favorite players, Team Staal was undoubtedly the most cheered on team; as the Carolina Hurricanes fans
also called the “Caniacs” chanted in favor of the team with the most Hurricane players with slogans such as “Let’s Go Staal, Let’s Go!”, before the match even began. It was something which Eric hopped for having picked a Carolina Hurricane in his first pick
of the NHL All-Star Fantasy Draft.
Waiting anxiously, pumped up fans were barbequing in the parking lot and discussing what could go on in the main event tonight. As the doors opened, fans raced to get in to see a once in a year event live.
It was the Grammy’s of the NHL, a star studded and VIP event, as the players entered onto the ice on a red carpet for the pre-game introductions. It was loud in the Raleigh centre as they were part of an historical event. The match was very well played by
some of the greatest NHL players today.
"It was incredible," an amazed Eric Staal said. "I thought the atmosphere, especially the start, was awesome. Fans were excited. The weather was unbelievable. The fans were tailgating. It was awesome, a lot of fun. It was just a good time."
Team Staal headed by Captain Eric Staal lost the match 11-10 over Team Lindstrom, but that was the last of their concerns as everyone came to enjoy and just have a good time. Carolina Hurricanes rookie Jeff Skinner received the biggest noticeable introductory
ovation by the sold out crowd in Carolina.
As the puck dropped signaling the start of the 2011 ASG, Alex Ovechkin scored with 50 seconds of the first period, followed by 3 more with the next 5 minutes, by Elias and Giroux putting them ahead by 4-0. But it wasn’t all fun and games for Team Staal,
Team Lindstrom scored a response 4 goals in the remaining of the first period.
"I know, 4-0, usually the game is over," Tampa Bay’s Stamkos told NHL.com, "but everyone knows in an All-Star event like this, it's never over until it's over."
Boston goalie Tim Thomas set a record for becoming the only goaltender to have been on the winning side for 3 consecutive NHL ASG’s, winning in 2008, 2009 and now in 2011. Team Lindstrom emerged on top at the end of the 2nd period with 7-6, and
victory was inevitable after Loui Eriksson scored on an empty net making it 11-9 with less than 2 minutes to go. Finally the tremendous and spectacular game ended with the last goal by Team Staal Captain.
This weekend was everything a fan could ever hope of, even for the players who were walking around and getting their gear signed by other players to make this event even more memorable. A first ever penalty shot was awarded in the history of the NHL All-Star
games.
"We felt the energy, the buildup coming into this weekend," a very happy Staal said. "The fans have been excited, and then they delivered. It was awesome."
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