Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Keith Yandle was a healthy scratch Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs, ending his NHL-record ironman streak.
Yandle played in 989 consecutive games, having passed Doug Jarvis for the ironman title earlier this season.
When asked about how he reacted to the news, Yandle said he wasn't upset and understands the decision.
"You gotta respect that out of the business side of it and what they're trying to do here. For me, it's just continuing to come to the rink, help young guys out, and be a good teammate and be here for guys," Yandle said.
"It's tough to have a bad day in the NHL. Obviously, getting the news that you're not playing is not what you want to hear."
Yeo elaborated on the reasoning behind Yandle being scratched.
"We're at the point in the season where, as an organization, it's important to get some young players in. Not to say that we're not playing hard for what's going on right now, but obviously we have to have an eye on the future and what's going on down the road to give some new guys an opportunity," Yeo said.
Yandle hadn't missed a game since March 22, 2009, when he was a member of the then-Phoenix Coyotes. He's played with the Coyotes, New York Rangers, Florida Panthers, and Flyers during the length of the streak.
When reflecting on his ironman streak coming to an end, Yandle said he's just happy with everything he's been able to accomplish in the NHL.
"I'm fortunate to play one game in this league," he said. "I say it all the time, I've been blessed to be in this league as long as I have, and I owe pretty much my whole life to this league. It's been a great journey, too."
The 35-year-old inked a one-year, $900,000 contract with the Flyers during the offseason. He has 15 points in 67 games this season, along with an NHL-worst -39 plus/minus rating.
Phil Kessel is now the NHL's active ironman leader. He ranks second all time with 968 consecutive games, trailing Yandle's record by 21.
