We'd never had a ceremony like this is Nashville before, so none of us really knew what to expect. But everything about this was PERFECT. From the tribute videos, to the emphasis on Pekka's off-ice impact and charity work, to seeing Ben Vanderklok and Juuse Saros tear up after getting shoutouts in Rinne's speech... there were just so many moments that made us Smashville citizens feel warm and fuzzy inside.
Also of note, WE’RE GETTING A PEKKA RINNE STATUE AT BRIDGESTONE ARENA!
Nashville Predators jersey retirement: Pekka Rinne relishing being dad | Tennessean
One of the moments that got me in the feels last night was Pekka talking about bringing Paulus back to a future game at Bridgestone Arena, showing him his jersey in the rafters, and telling him stories about his career.