Lundqvist becomes 11th player in Rangers history to have jersey retired

The King has taken his throne in the rafters at Madison Square Garden.

Henrik Lundqvist became the 11th player to have his number retired by the New York Rangers when a banner with his name and No. 30 was raised at the Garden before the team's game against the Minnesota Wild on Friday night.

The Swedish goalie spent his entire 15-year playing career with the Rangers after being selected in the seventh round of the 2000 NHL draft, finishing with a record of 459-310-96 with a 2.43 goals-against average and .918 save-percentage. After the 2019-20 season, he had the final year of his contract bought out by New York and signed with Washington for the ensuing shortened season but did not play after having heart surgery.

The 39-year-old Lundqvist, a fan favourite in New York from the start of his stellar career, received an ovation and cheers of "Hen-rik! Hen-rik!" from the crowd when he was announced and walked out on the blue carpet on the ice, and then again when he was called to the podium by Rangers broadcaster Sam Rosen.

"When I look back at my 15 years here, what gives me the most satisfaction it's not the wins or the personal recognition but its really the commitment," Lundqvist said. "The commitment I felt to the New York Rangers and the commitment they showed me for so long."

Lundqvist became the third Rangers goalie to have his jersey retired, joining Ed Giacomin (1) and Mike Richter (35). Brian Leetch (2), Harry Howell (3), Rod Gilbert (7), Andy Bathgate (9), Adam Graves (9), Vic Hadfield (11), Mark Messier (11), and Jean Ratelle (19) also have been honoured.

"I'm so happy I get an opportunity to say thank you to all the amazing fans in here and around this great city," said Lundqvist, who was interrupted with more