While Thompson is adamant that he'll be severely outplayed, the 12-year NHL veteran is still hoping to keep things somewhat close… by not playing as himself.
"I don't know what my rating is on the game, but I'm guessing it's not in the 80's like all the big guys," joked Thompson, before revealing his plan of action when it comes time to pick up his controller. "I'll probably use Sidney Crosby or someone else really good if I want to give myself a chance to win."
Win or lose, the Anchorage, AK native believes spending some quality time at Esports Central might just inspire him to purchase a new gaming console.
"I know a lot of guys are playing, so maybe this will get me going," said Thompson, who also lists Goldeneye 007 and Guitar Hero among his favorite titles. "I don't know if my wife will be too big a fan of it, but they're long winters here and it's very cold, so you've got to find something to do. We'll see."
Nevertheless, Thompson's visit to the facility is about far more than gaming, of course.
"Whenever you can give back to the community, especially the Montreal Children's Hospital, it's a great cause. I was presented with the opportunity and I wanted to jump on it and help," explained Thompson. "Things like that can go a long way. Whenever us players can show up in the community and try to help those kids going through tough times, it's only good. It's definitely a good starting point. Hopefully something can evolve from this."
