How does one define the ever mystical Pavel Bure? Is it even possible?

BURE: Russian Rocket. Calder Trophy winner. TWO-time Rocket Winner. Clutch Performer. Two-Time Olympian. All-Star. Speed Racer. Goal Scorer. Legend. Hall of Famer. Forever a Canuck.

Pavel Bure may not have been a Canuck at the end of his hockey career, but to nearly all Canucks fans, he will always be a Canuck.

Bure’s NHL career began when he was drafter 113th overall in the 1989 NHL draft by the Vancouver Canucks. His NHL debut would come in the 1991-1992 campaign and go on to win the Calder trophy as the rookie of the year.

For 7 years Canucks fans were mesmerized by the magic that was Pavel Bure. Every single time he had the puck, he made a play that seemed impossible. The energy Bure brought was electric to the team and the fans in the stands.

In 362 games with the Vancouver Canucks, Pavel Bure amassed an incredible 418 points [220 goals, 198 assists].

Is it even possible to think of Bure without remembering the improbable 1994 Stanley Cup Final run and that all-time highlight reel goal against Calgary in game 7?!

Pavel Bure brought a high level of excitement to team in 1991 that reached all new levels when he sparked the 1994 Stanley Cup Final playoff run.

Wondering what some of the Russian Rocket’s favourite hockey memories are? He sat down with Stan Smyl and Joey Kenward to answer a few questions prior to his Jersey Retirement evening:

Say what you will about Pavel Bure, but there is no denying his talent and the excitement that helped bring an elite level of hockey to this franchise.

On November 2, 2013, nearly 22 years after making his NHL debut [November 3, 1991], the Vancouver Canucks will raise his #10 to the rafters. His #10 will join, Stan Smyl’s #12, Trevor Linden’s #16 and Markus Naslund’s #19.

Pavel Bure with his unforgettable speed and electrifying playing style captured the hearts of Canucks fans and this city. Vancouver will never forget the lasting impact that the #RussianRocket had on this franchise.

It’s an early 4:00 PM[Pacific time] start as the Canucks take on the Toronto Maple Leafs. The pre-game ceremony [will delay the puck drop] is bound to be full of surprises that will be met by many LOUD cheers as the crowd salutes Pavel prior to the game.

It’s going to be one heck of a ceremony! Congratulations Pavel Bure! #RUSSIANROCKET #foreveracanuck #10totheRAFTERS

As always, until next time, nuck said.

Sarah E.L.