The St. Louis Blues made it clear that David Backes meant a lot to their organization. Their tribute said it all as they welcomed Backes and the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.
Judge for yourself, but it also looked like Backes managed to keep it together and fight the urge to cry, as was his stated goal.
Here’s the tribute via the Blues:
Thanks for everything, @dbackes42. pic.twitter.com/Naj2BtiR9Z
— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) January 11, 2017
Blues fans followed suit with a rousing ovation of their own, to little surprise.
Heartfelt standing ovation for @dbackes42 and his wife Kelly after a tribute video. pic.twitter.com/qawQHXgOgP
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) January 11, 2017
Pierre McGuire caught up with Backes for his thoughts on his return right before the game: