Pavel Bure’s Number to be Raised to the Rafters

When Pavel Bure returned to Vancouver last season and took in a Canucks game, the response from fans was overwhelmingly positive. Whatever damage was done when Pavel abruptly held out and demanded a trade out of Vancouver was forgotten. Whatever sins he committed to the city was instantly forgiven.

The people have spoken – they want the most exciting, most dynamic, and first real superstar player this franchise has ever had to have his number retired. The Canucks listened, and tonight, they made it official – this season, Pavel’s no. 10 will be raised to the rafters.

I don’t think I’ve made any attempts to hide my thoughts on this, but I’m aware I’m in the minority of Canucks fans who feel the way I do. Ultimately, the decision to retire someone’s number symbolizes that the organization and the fans think so highly of that player that no one else should ever wear his number again. In Pavel’s case, it’s clear they agree with this decision, and in the end, that’s all that matters. Know this though, whether I agree with it or not, like everyone else, I’ll be cheering along as we re-live the many – and yes there are many – highlights of his career as a Canuck, and we raise his number next to Stan’s, Trevor’s and Markus’.