Clayton Keller Honored After Playing in Game Following Father’s Passing
The Utah Mammoth captain, Clayton Keller, participated in Friday night’s game against the Dallas Stars, which resulted in a 4-3 loss, one day after the unexpected passing of his father. In a gesture of tribute, Keller was named the first star of the match.Keller, 27, has played all 10 seasons of his career in the NHL with the Arizona-Utah franchise and was named captain before last season, when the team moved to Salt Lake City. Selected seventh overall in the 2016 draft and a four-time All-Star, Keller scored 30 goals in each of the last three seasons, including career highs last season with 60 assists and 90 points. Before Friday’s game, Keller was second on the team with 21 points, including eight goals.He loves his teammates so much, and his teammates love him so much. He drives our passion and our competitiveness every night. He’s the kind of person who wants to improve every night. We couldn’t have a better example of a captain.
Andre Tourigny, Mammoth Coach
Obviously, Kell is our leader in the locker room, but also off the ice. He has done an incredible job leading and guiding us. I have been with him for more than 10 years. It’s really our turn to support him. It’s difficult news, and we’re all trying to deal with it the best way we can.
Lawson Crouse, Utah Player
I don’t know how the young man played, to be honest with you. Much credit to him. My heart is with him and his family.
Glen Gulutzan, Coach of the Dallas Stars
