FEATURE: From One No. 19 to Another, Congratulations Jonathan

Dear Jonathan,
Congratulations on playing 1,000 games in the NHL, all with the team that drafted you 3rd overall back in 2006. It's an amazing accomplishment that very few achieve!
Back then, I was excited to know that a player from the University of North Dakota was coming to the Blackhawks, having played there myself way back before you were born. Knowing you are from Winnipeg, with me being a past Jet captain in the early '90s, gave us a little extra bond as well.

Then, of course, you chose to wear No. 19 because you wanted to follow in my footsteps! I found out later that it was only because that was one of the numbers they offered you. Major disappointment. But I am truly honored that we wore the same number on the back of the best jersey in hockey. I always say that whenever they retire your jersey, just put it in fine print somewhere at the bottom "Also worn by.."
In all seriousness, it has been amazing to be here for all of your 1,000 games. Your accomplishments have been incredible: three Stanley Cups, Conn Smythe Trophy winner and gold medals, just to name a few. I've been lucky to watch you grow from a 19-year-old rookie to one of the best leaders this game has ever seen. But what I treasure the most is our friendship -- a bond that is extra special between No. 19s. You have always found the time to talk, and a lot of those talks had nothing to do with hockey, just a conversation between two friends. Thank you for that!
Congratulations on your milestone achievement and hoping for many more games in your tremendous career. You are a great player, a great person, and most importantly a great friend.
Sincerely,
!