The Sedin twins left an incredible imprint on the NHL during their careers, capturing multiple awards and nearly leading the Vancouver Canucks to a Stanley Cup in 2011. But above all, the 2nd and 3rd overall picks from the 1999 draft might be remembered most for the way they conducted themselves both on and off the ice.
Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock, a former Western Conference coach for the Anaheim Ducks and Detroit Red Wings respectively, game planned against the Swedes on multiple occasions. When asked about their retirement, ‘Babs’ shared his thoughts about the duo which detailed the characteristics that impressed him most.
Both players have exemplified tremendous class since entering the league. In 2016, Henrik was named the King Clancy Memorial Trophy winner; an award given to the player who best exemplifies qualities on and off the ice and who has made a significant contribution to his community. Henrik donned the C during his time with the 'Nucks while Henrik rocked an A for the latter years of his career.
Babcock has coached some incredible players in his day, most notably other Swedish players including Niklas Lidstrom and Henrik Zetterberg amongst others. As their playing days run down, it will be interesting to see what their next chapter has in store.
