Two of the most talented European-born players to play in the NHL highlight the Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2014, which was announced Monday.
Goaltender Dominik Hasek of the Czech Republic and Swedish center Peter Forsberg were joined by American center Mike Modano, along with defenseman Rob Blake, coach Pat Burns and referee Bill McCreary.
"When we go through the meetings, we make it very clear that is the Hockey Hall of Fame. It is a world-renowned Hall of Fame," said Columbus Blue Jackets president John Davidson, who is chairman of the selection committee. "This tells me our game is growing worldwide and our game is being recognized all over the world for the great game that it is. When we have a class like this that is coming into the Hall, I think it says a lot about our game and how worldwide it really is."
The inductees were chosen by an 18-person committee this past weekend in Toronto. The 2014 Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place Nov. 17.