On Friday night the New Jersey Devils, the Prudential Center and WFAN hosted the Third Annual Mike Nichols Hockey Charity Game to benefit spinal cord research and quality of life initiatives.
Boomer Esiason and Craig Carton, hosts of “Boomer and Carton” were captains of their respective teams’. Both squads that featured many former Devils, Rangers Islanders and other NHL players were introduced before face-off with the loudest cheers saved for recently retired Devils player Patrik Elias. With players assembled at each blue line, the spotlight turned to Mike Nichols who came out to center ice and spoke for a few minutes.
Nichols thanked the players for coming out and playing for him plus thanking the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for being there for him and his family. He had important message for the fans in attendance to donate to the foundation by texting “Reeve” to 20222. Next up to speak was former Devils defenseman and MSG Analyst Ken Daneyko who welcomed Nichols and his family on behalf of the Prudential Center and inviting them to an upcoming concert at the arena.
As the game was concerned, Team Boomer captured its third straight game with 8-6 victory. Former New York Ranger Glenn Anderson tallied a hat trick. On the flipside Will Reeve, son of Christopher & Dana Reeve notched a hat trick of his own. Despite being off balance on numerous occasions, Carton managed to make several spectacular saves.
After the final horn sounded, both teams’ formed a line and shook hands. Esiason and Carton handed Nichols an autographed jersey. In addition players from both squads posed for a picture with Nichols.