Holtby didn't dress for Team Canada, but his mask for the tournament is an ode to the Canadian-based band, which played its final show August 20.
Downie announced in May that he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and the band spent the summer on a farewell tour across Canada. Holtby's original World Cup mask had featured Canadian scenery and colors. He designed a new mask with images of Downie and the rest of The Tragically Hip in time for the tournament.
Holtby's mask is up for auction until Oct. 10. The proceeds will benefit The Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre where Downie received treatment, and the Gord Downie Secret Path Fund for Truth and Reconciliation, which is a program that educates and preserves the historical significance of Canada's abolished First Nations Residential Schools program.
You can bid on the mask here.
An important disclaimer for the auction says "the condition of the mask cannot be guaranteed as the same at the time of the auction listing."
A few game-action dings should only increase its value.
