Watch: Erie Otters rock #97 on back ahead of Connor McDavid’s jersey retirement night – Source: Imagn

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid was honored on Friday night by his junior hockey team, the Erie Otters, Sportsnet reported.

The ceremony celebrated a decade since McDavid last played for the team. The Otters retired Connor McDavid’s jersey number 97. The players hit the ice rocking #97 jerseys in honor of the team’s beloved star.

Here’s a look at the fantastic jerseys:

The entire club hit the ice for warm-ups donning the McDavid-labeled jerseys, showcasing their appreciation for the former OHL superstar.

Connor McDavid’s number was officially hung in the rafters at the Erie Insurance Arena. The banner immortalizes McDavid’s legacy with the Otters.

McDavid last played for the Otters in 2014-15. The three-time Hart Trophy winner would go on to become the number-one overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft ahead of the Buffalo Sabres’ Jack Eichel.

In 10 seasons with the Edmonton Oilers, McDavid has racked up 1,040 points in 683 games. In addition to the three Hart Trophies, he’s won the Art Ross five times as the league’s top scorer and the Rocket Richard once.

Last spring, McDavid became the sixth player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy despite playing for the losing team. This season, McDavid and the Oilers hope to take the next step as the club looks to capture its first Stanley Cup since 1990.

Connor McDavid comes full circle with Erie Otters

Sportsnet caught up with Connor McDavid on the occasion of his jersey retirement ceremony on Friday night. McDavid spoke to reporters, stating how meaningful the event is for him, seeing the recognition for his achievements in junior hockey.

McDavid recalled feeling intimidated at 15 when he first arrived in the OHL. Now, a 27-year-old NHL veteran, McDavid described his feelings:

“Funny too, you know, kind of have it come full circle, here.”

The OHL named its top prospects game in McDavid’s honor. McDavid shared his thoughts on the recognition:

“It’s definitely a reminder that time is passing. It’s been 10 years now since I played in Junior Hockey, you know, some of the things are starting to be recognized, the banner, and the game, stuff like that, make me feel a little bit old, I guess. I’m still young, I’ve got lots of time left.”

McDavid concluded his thoughts by stating:

“It’s still special with both of those things.”

Friday night’s ceremony is just one of the many awards and honors that McDavid will likely receive as his playing career continues. It remains to be seen just how far Connor McDavid can get in terms of NHL milestones and records, but at just 27, he has already built a strong case for the Hall of Fame.