The incredible courage of Craig Anderson and his wife, who after being diagnosed with cancer encouraged him to join them on the road, brought something different, brought something special, out of the Ottawa Senators.
They rallied around Craig Anderson on Sunday night, putting forth a resolute defensive effort in support of their netminder.
The result: a 37-save shutout, and an unforgettable night in Edmonton.
"The players wanted to defend so well," Guy Boucher said in his media scrum. "That was the whole mindset. We could hear our offensive players the whole game on the bench talking about defending and paying the price. That they weren't giving away any freebies.
"And as the game went on, you were watching Craig and you couldn't help but be inspired by him."
Related: Senators' emotional net-front celebration after Anderson shutout
The support wasn't limited to the Senators' bench. In addition to applauding his team, Boucher singled out the respect and support of the Oilers' organization, as well as its players and fans.
"We love hockey - it's a great game. But there's things that are bigger. I think there was a lot of people that showed that tonight."
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