Referee Sutherland welcomes teams to a new NHL season

Before puck drop of Penguins-Flyers game, official says a few words to teams

PIT@PHI: Sutherland gives speech prior to puck drop

By Pat Pickens @Pat_Pickens / NHL.com Staff Writer

Now that is an official welcome.

Referee Kelly Sutherland addressed the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers before the first game of the 2021 NHL season on Wednesday evening at Wells Fargo Center.
Sutherland's remarks prior to puck drop at the empty arena were brief, but heartfelt.
"Gentlemen, we've all waited with excitement for this day," Sutherland said. "Welcome to the start of the NHL 2021 season. Best wishes to all of you. Stay safe, stay healthy. Let's have a great battle."
The NHL season will feature 56 games with the regular season
scheduled to finish on May 8
.

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