Dominik Hasek was back in Western New York on Thursday night, and the Hall of Fame Sabres goalie made sure fans knew it.
Hasek joined a free watch party at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino as Buffalo took on the Chicago Blackhawks, and he helped set the tone by banging the “Let’s Go Buffalo” drum when the puck dropped in Chicago.
For Hasek, the night was less about ceremony and more about reconnecting with the people who still embrace him. “I am glad to be back being in Western New York, and today, for me, it’s meeting fans; meeting people, it’s always fun for me, that’s why I’m here tonight,” Hasek said.
Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino’s Vice President of Operations Steven McCarthy said having Hasek in the building added another layer to the event. “It’s so special to have him here because it creates such an atmosphere of excitement,” McCarthy said. “To bring someone in like Dominik Hasek, it’s amazing; it creates excitement, it’s a great place to watch the game, couple of friends, grab a couple drinks, play some games and have some fun.”
Hasek said Western New York still feels like home after nearly a decade with the Sabres. He said he returns regularly to visit friends and has never lost the connection to the area.
“Nine wonderful years, I raised my kids here,” Hasek said. “I had so much fun with my teammates, we made it to the Stanley Cup finals … community was nice to me, this is something you never forget. I am coming here every year and spend some time with friends, and it will be like that forever.”
He also said he was pleased to see Buffalo reach the playoffs last season and wants to see the team keep pushing forward.
“It’s nice to see this team do so well,” Hasek said. “Their goal must be to get back to the playoffs, and you never know what can happen … maybe one day, the Sabres, they bring the cup to Buffalo.”
Buffalo is back on the ice Saturday against the Dallas Stars.
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