ST. LOUIS – Utah Mammoth captain Clayton Keller showed unwavering strength by deciding to play in his hometown two days after the unexpected passing of his father, Bryan, which occurred on Thanksgiving. Prior to Saturday night’s match, the Blues paid tribute to Keller and his 64-year-old father, displaying a photograph on the stadium screen and observing a moving minute of silence. The match ended with a defeat for the Mammoth against the Blues by 1-0. After the game, Keller shared his feelings for the first time since his father’s passing.
Keller also participated in Friday’s game in Dallas, where the team fell 4-3 to the Stars, although he did not score any points. In a sign of respect, the Stars recognized him as the first star of the match.For me and my family, a huge thank you to the Blues for everything they did tonight. They didn’t have to do it.
Clayton Keller
For Keller, playing was essential, especially at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, where he was accompanied by family, including his mother and grandmother.The incredible thing about hockey is the human quality that surrounds it. Everything comes from the heart.
Andre Tourigny, coach of the Mammoth
Keller, 27, has played all ten seasons of his career in the NHL with the Arizona-Utah franchise and was named captain before last season, coinciding with the team’s move to Salt Lake City. Selected in the seventh position of the 2016 draft and a four-time All-Star, Keller has been a consistent 30-goal scorer in the last three seasons, including career highs last season with 60 assists and 90 points. In the current season, he has 21 points, with eight goals. Keller expressed his gratitude for the support received.There are many memories in this stadium. I grew up coming to games here, sitting on my father’s and grandfather’s laps. I admired those players and dreamed of being on the court.
Clayton Keller
First of all, the technical staff and management have been incredible. There are no words to express it.
Clayton Keller
