Trevor Linden Makes Surprise Visit to Canucks’ Season Finale
The Vancouver Canucks wrapped up their regular season with a surprise visit from one of the most beloved figures in franchise history. Former team captain and long-time fan favorite Trevor Linden attended the final game of the season, accompanied by his son Roman. The father-son duo was shown on the Rogers Arena video board during the game, sparking a loud and heartfelt ovation from the Vancouver crowd.
Linden’s appearance held special meaning for more than one reason. While fans were thrilled to see the Canucks legend in the building, Linden was also there to honor a close friend and long-time colleague — equipment manager Pat O’Neill. After an incredible run in professional hockey spanning over four decades, O’Neill is retiring. He first entered the NHL during the 1980-81 season and joined the Canucks in 1988, coinciding with Linden’s rookie year. Their careers became deeply intertwined over the years, making Linden’s presence at O’Neill’s final game a fitting tribute.
Before the puck dropped, the Canucks shared behind-the-scenes footage of Linden and Roman congratulating O’Neill. Reflecting on their connection, Linden said, “He saw my first, he saw my last, and now I’m coming to see his last,” emphasizing the significance of O’Neill’s contributions and their personal bond.
O’Neill was honored throughout the evening with several special gestures. He received the team’s Unsung Hero award and was celebrated with a video tribute and enthusiastic applause from fans. Both Canucks and Golden Knights players acknowledged him with stick taps, adding to the emotional send-off.
Although the night was full of appreciation for O’Neill and nostalgia for longtime fans, the game itself left little to celebrate. The Canucks fell 4-1 to the Vegas Golden Knights, who had already secured their playoff position. The loss marked a disappointing conclusion to a season that fell short of expectations for Vancouver.
Despite the on-ice result, the evening served as a meaningful moment for Canucks fans. Linden’s return, albeit unofficial, reminded many of the loyalty and heart he brought to the franchise during his 16 seasons as a player. He also served as the team’s president from 2014 to 2018 before stepping away from his executive role.
This wasn’t Linden and Roman’s first public appearance together at a Canucks game. The pair also attended a playoff matchup last season, watching Game 5 of the first-round series against the Nashville Predators. Linden has expressed in previous interviews how much he enjoys sharing the game with his son and stepping into his role as a father.
“I’m loving being a dad,” Linden told Daily Hive in a May 2023 interview. Though no longer involved in the organization in an official capacity, his enduring connection to the team and its community remains strong.
As for O’Neill, while he’s officially retiring, both head coach Rick Tocchet and captain Quinn Hughes hinted that the veteran equipment manager may still have a presence around the team next season. For now, the Canucks bid farewell to a longtime staff member and shared a special moment with a franchise legend.
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