Clayton Keller faced an emotional challenge as he competed for the Utah Mammoth just a day after the death of his father, Bryan. The game against the Dallas Stars took place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, resulting in a 4-3 defeat for the Mammoth.
Keller’s Performance Amidst Personal Loss
In his performance, Keller, a forward and captain for the Mammoth, recorded five shots on goal during 18 minutes and 7 seconds of ice time. His efforts earned him the title of First Star of the game. Despite his personal sorrow, Keller’s leadership remained evident on the ice.
Support from Teammates
- Lawson Crouse, a fellow Utah forward, expressed the team’s solidarity, stating, “It’s been an emotional 24 hours.”
- Crouse noted Keller’s role as a leader both on and off the ice.
- The team aims to support him during this difficult time.
Coaching and Team Unity
Andre Tourigny, Mammoth head coach, spoke about Keller’s dedication. “Clayton wants to play; we want to extend our condolences to his family,” Tourigny commented before the game. He emphasized the importance of team support during challenging moments.
Keller’s Career Highlights
Prior to his father’s passing, Keller had established himself as a prominent player. He has accumulated 21 points, including eight goals and 13 assists, in 25 games this season. Last year, he achieved personal bests with 60 assists and 90 points over 81 games. Since being drafted as the No. 7 pick by the Arizona Coyotes in 2016, Keller has amassed 529 points over 626 NHL games, further reflecting his contribution to the sport.
Upcoming Challenges
The Mammoth, who hold a record of 12 wins, 10 losses, and 3 ties, currently sit fourth in the Central Division. Their next match is against the St. Louis Blues, taking place in Keller’s hometown. This game may bring additional emotional challenges for the player.
Looking Ahead
Crouse mentioned the team’s intention to channel their collective energy during the upcoming match. “The emotions are still going to be running. We need to uplift our group,” he said.
As Keller continues to lead the Mammoth during this tough time, the support from teammates and coaches remains crucial in navigating this personal and professional journey.
