No doubt, the best parts of All-Star introductions come in seeing who gets the biggest cheers (and loudest boos). Usually, we’re talking about players, coaches, and maybe a celebrity like Jon Hamm. The 2020 NHL All-Star Game provided a unique moment, though: Laila Anderson received a big cheer, and then introduced the hometown Blues’ All-Star representatives.
Let me say this: Anderson did a great job. The “good luck charm” showed potential as an announcer.
Laila Anderson introduces Blues at All-Star Game
Anderson introduced Jordan Binnington, David Perron, Alex Pietrangelo, and Ryan O’Reilly. Anderson announced each Blues All-Star with gusto, too:
Laila Anderson introduces the @StLouisBlues #NHLAllStar Game starters. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/7s5XWPbpz2
— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) January 26, 2020
Good stuff.
Quite a year for Anderson (and the Blues)
This continued another great stretch for the Blues’ “good luck charm.” If getting the bobblehead treatment wasn’t enough, Anderson was also immortalized in trading card form:
Here's a look at Laila Anderson's Heroic Inspriations @StLouisBlues card we unveiled for her at the #NHLAllStar Fan Fair. She will be sigining copies & accepting donations for @BeTheMatch Registry at the UD Booth on Sunday from 12:00-1:30. This is a card every @NHL fan needs! pic.twitter.com/AiuRNSmiKo
— Upper Deck Hockey (@UpperDeckHockey) January 24, 2020
Let’s recall the year Anderson experienced:
- She received that bone marrow transplant and met her donor. They even met up at a Blues game.
- Anderson became a “good luck charm” for the Blues. Eventually, she received the bobblehead treatment.
- The Blues let her have a touching moment with the Stanley Cup, and even gifted Anderson a ring. She also spoke during the parade.
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James O’Brien is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at phtblog@nbcsports.com or follow him on Twitter @cyclelikesedins.