PIT@COL: Former Humboldt Broncos defenseman Layne Matechuk drops the puck

The Colorado Avalanche welcomed former Humboldt Broncos defenseman Layne Matechuk to participate in the ceremonial puck drop before the team’s game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday at Ball Arena.

Matechuk was a defenseman on the junior hockey team that was affected by a tragic bus accident in 2018. He suffered severe injuries in the accident.

On Tuesday, he fulfilled a lifelong dream in a heartwarming moment.

After his introduction, Matechuk walked out to center ice where he met Penguins captain Sidney Crosby and Avalanche alternate captain Nathan MacKinnon -- two of his favorite players -- before dropping the puck between them.

No doubt that puck is going to make it onto the mantel.