Chris Driedger Becomes First IceMen to Play in the NHL

March 26, 2015 - ECHL (ECHL)
Evansville IceMen News Release


OTTAWA, Ont. Chris Driedger has made Evansville IceMen, presented by Coors Light, history by becoming the first IceMen alumni to play in an NHL game when he entered the net for Ottawa Senators in their game against the New York Rangers with 2:52 left in the second period.

Driedger stopped all 10 of the pucks he faced from the Rangers third ranked offense. In this performance Driedger became the first IceMen player to see action in an NHL game and the 560th player to go from the ECHL to the top hockey league in North America.

On Feb. 17, the Senators called Driedger up to the NHL, making him the first IceMen player ever brought up to the Show. Driedger returned to the IceMen on Mar.2 without having played a game due to Andrew Hammond's hot streak.

Just 12 days ago, Driedger protected the net for the IceMen. However, on Mar. 17 the Senators recalled the rookie after an injury to Goaltender Craig Anderson.

With Hammond's dominance continuing, Driedger did not receive an opportunity until Thursday night when the Rangers scored five goals in the first two periods. Down 5-1, the Senators sent Driedger in to shut the door and that's exactly what he did by not allowing another goal the rest of the game.

Driedger has played in 40 contests this season for the IceMen, which is the third highest total in franchise history. The Calgary native also matched Evansville's record for shutouts with two perfect outings in November.

See more potential future NHL players in action live when the IceMen play their home finale against the South Carolina Stingrays. The final IceMen home game of the season begins at 5 p.m. inside the Ford Center. The Zooperstars will perform during intermission and entertain fans at the game.

The first 1,000 kids 12 & under will receive free mini sticks courtesy of TRCI. Fans will also get to take 40% off merchandise at the team store inside the Ford Center. Plus the Boom Squad will perform outside the Ford Center before doors open from 3-4 p.m.

It will be another Subway Sunday. Fans can get a ticket, a t-shirt, a popcorn and a soda for just $19. Book your Subway Sunday package by calling an IceMen ticket executive at 812-421-GOAL.

Don't miss your final chance to see the IceMen this season. Single game tickets are on sale for the IceMen's home finale at the Ford Center Box Office Monday through Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and after noon on weekend game days, or online at nputEvansville+Icemen&qEvansville+Icemen

Before their final home game, the IceMen hit the road on Friday to take on the Cincinnati Cyclones and will face the Toledo Walleye on Saturday. Fans can catch both games live at Bar Louie, the official watch party destination of your IceMen.

2015-16 season tickets are on sale now. Plans start at just $10 per ticket. Call an IceMen ticket executive at 812-421-GOAL to get your discounted season and group packages.



ECHL Stories from March 26, 2015


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central