Why is hockey so great? Well there are many answers to this question, but last night what transpired during and after the New York Islanders & Pittsburgh Penguins game gave me all the feels…Watch the Gifs in order…

Robin Lehner and Patric Hornqvist were virtually fighting in the second period and then after the game in the handshake line they are embracing each other. That is the ultimate symbol of respect and sportsmanship; putting it all on the line while the game is going on, but being mature and respectful enough to understand the heat of the moment does not define the type of person they are. These guys don’t hate each other off the ice and that is clearly shown here.

Hockey is a game of respect and the post game encounter between Hornqvist and Lehner showed exactly that. Respect to both of these guys.