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Canadiens honor former captain Saku Koivu in emotional pregame ceremony

Eric Bolte / Reuters

Former Montreal Canadiens captain Saku Koivu was honored before Thursday's game against the Anaheim Ducks at the Bell Centre.

The Canadiens put together a video montage celebrating Koivu's illustrious career.

He then took the ice to a standing ovation and was moved to tears.

Koivu thanked the fans by waving to the crowd and acknowledging them in a poignant speech.

He also thanked the Ducks organization and the family of the late Jean Beliveau.

The Canadiens capped off the tribute by presenting Koivu with a painting.

(All photos courtesy: CityTV)

Here's the ceremony in its entirety:

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