It comes as no surprise that NHL warrior Ian Laperriere announced his retirement today. Lappy had been battling to make a comeback after blocking that dreadful Paul Martin slap shot which broke his orbital bone and left Lappy with a concussion in the 2010 playoffs.

Laperriere has been vocal about loving his time in Denver with the Avalanche, and he was loved in return. A fan favorite after just a few games in burgundy and blue, Lappy won his teammates and fans over with his warrior mentality, his unselfish and gritty play, and his willingness to drop the gloves. Laperriere also improved the community in Denver, and everywhere he lived during his time in the NHL, through various contributions, service, and other charity work.

Lappy will always be a beloved member of the Avalanche family, and also here at MHH where he ranks in at 19th on the list of Top 19 Avs of all time. Today though, he is number 1 (no seriously, somebody change it, just for today - I don't have that kind of power).