Panthers hit the ice in Jose Fernandez jerseys
Florida Panthers come onto ice all wearing Jose Fernandez No.16 jerseys pic.twitter.com/noKTNZknum
— George Richards (@GeorgeRichards) October 13, 2016
The Florida Panthers opened their season Thursday by paying tribute to deceased Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez.
Panthers players took the ice before the game wearing jerseys with Fernandez's name and No. 16 on the back. They also had No. 16 decals on their helmets for the home opener against the New Jersey Devils.
Several Marlins players were on hand for the ceremony, including Dee Gordon and Adam Conley.
.@FlashGJr & @Adamconley29 with @FlaPanthers President & CEO, Matthew Caldwell. pic.twitter.com/4LWEbq9ZBp
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) October 13, 2016
Fernandez had a major impact on the South Florida community before his death late last month in a boating accident. Following his passing, Panthers president of hockey operations Dale Tallon released the following statement:
"The Florida Panthers players, staff, and entire organization extend their most sincere condolences to the family of Jose Fernandez and the Miami Marlins organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Fernandez and Marlins families through this profoundly difficult time."