Hockey History As Told By Cardboard - Matthew Tkachuk

Elite Prospects describes Matthew Tkachuk as, "A multi-dimensional energy winger who plays a pro-style, adaptive game. Well-versed as a guy who can consistently put up points, but also as an agitator who plays with a little bit of bite and nastiness."  That last part is what makes Matthew a player fans love to hate. 

Tkachuk scored with a second remaining in Overtime in a game against the Nashville Predators on Halloween night, October 31, 2019. Firing home a rebound from the slot with a wrist shot, the Flames secured the W at Bridgestone Arena.

Hockey History As Told By Cardboard - Dion Phaneuf

Fresh off of being named the WHL's Top Defenseman in back-to-back seasons, Dion Phaneuf brought the same blend of offensive skills and defensive aggression to the NHL when he came into the league.  The much maligned D-man had a lengthy career playing for a variety of teams and solidified himself as a solid blue liner.  

On October 10, 2005, Phaneuf recorded both his first goal and first assist in a 2-point effort in a game against the Colorado Avalanche.  A month later he was named the NHL's Rookie of the Month, leading all rookie d-men with nine points and 2 GWGs.  If it wasn't for Sid and Ovi, Dion may have been a prime candidate for Rookie of the Year.

I Can't Believe It's Not Cardboard - Highlighting Other Personal Collectibles (Zamboni Die-Cast)

So I guess this is only partially correct because technically, there is cardboard here. But that's not the real reason for sharing as the focal point of this collectible is the vehicle.  Back in 2008, the NHL teamed up with Upper Deck and Zamboni to produce the Team Zamboni die-cast collectible. 

Featuring 31 different players and their respective team logo emblazoned Zamboni ice resurfacer, Upper Deck was able to give card collectors and toy car collectors both something to chase. But you are probably thinking, "31 teams? In 2008?". Well no. There were 31 players. Only 30 teams. Penguins fans were lucky enough to have both Crosby and Malkin available. 

As you can see here, I have the Calgary Flames issue featuring Hall of Famer, Jerome Iginla.  I also have one for the Canucks with Henrik Sedin and one for the Maple Leafs with Vesa Toskala. I was never able to find the Penguins one back then and really never chased them since.  All three of the ones I have adorn the wall in the Card Garage.

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