Blackhawks players to wear Ray Emery patches at development camp

Ray Emery stands tall in Chicago Blackhawks lore after 2013 and the team begins to honor him starting with this week’s development camp.

It’s time for the yearly NHL development period. Some of the Chicago Blackhawks’ best prospects take to the ice where we’ll see where their game stands and determine who might take that next step in their journey as we gear up for another season at the Madhouse on Madison.

After last week’s announcement of the tragic passing of goaltender Ray Emery, a key part in the Blackhawks’ 2013 Stanley Cup winning run, the Blackhawks have begun their efforts to honor Razor, first this week.

Players on the ice will wear 30 patches on their helmets in honor of the 11-year vet. Emery will always hold a place in the hearts of Blackhawks faithful after 2013. It’s hard to argue the value of a backup goaltender. With Corey Crawford just starting to find his rhythm in net, even in a shortened season, Emery was called on and delivered.

In 21 appearances in 2012-13, Emery started 19 games and went 17-1. The year in all respects was a success from start to finish for the Blackhawks. Would they have started so strong without Emery backing Crawford?

Emery spent his career with four teams, finishing his career with the Philadelphia Flyers in 2015.

The Blackhawks have excitement on the ice this week, the next generation of hopeful organizational greats. Some grew up Blackhawks fans or admiring the organization in general. A story of recognition should always be appreciated. We see it a lot with life long players for teams but Ray Emery is special. Emery was a part of that really bright period in the city.

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Teams come and go, dynasties come and go, wins come and go. Special years seem to stand taller. 2013 was one of those years.

Rest in peace, Razor.