Willie O’Ree will participate in his number retirement ceremony with the Boston Bruins virtually out of an abundance of caution, the parties announced Thursday.
O’Ree’s No. 22 will be raised to the rafters before the Bruins’ game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Jan. 18.
“While my family and I looked forward to participating in the ceremonies in-person, the long travel and associated risks that come along with a cross-country trip have led us to make the difficult decision to participate virtually,” O’Ree said. “I want to thank the Bruins organization for their support and understanding, and I remain incredibly honored that they have chosen to retire my number. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the fans for their support throughout the years. I am excited to connect with everyone remotely, from my home in San Diego, on January 18.”
The ceremony was originally set for February 2021, but was pushed back with the hope of allowing fans in the building.
O’Ree was the first Black player to ever play in the NHL.
The ceremony falls on the anniversary of O’Ree’s NHL debut as he first stepped onto NHL ice on Jan. 18, 1958.
O’Ree will be the 12th player to have his jersey retired by the Bruins franchise.
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