The magic of John Scott's rise from journeyman fourth-liner to All-Star Game MVP can never be repeated. But if the NHL doesn't change the voting guidelines next season, which player would you like to see rise to the occasion in 2017?
It doesn't have to be an enforcer like Scott, but it should be someone who has been in the league for a while, has given his heart and soul to the game and deserves to be recognized.
After my initial request on Twitter from @espnjoeymac, I received a few quick responses. The majority of them believe current Florida Panthers forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion Shawn Thornton should earn an All-Star nod. But it's possible the 38-year-old veteran could retire after this season when his contract expires.
A few other suggestions included: the New York Rangers' Dominic Moore, Edmonton Oilers' Matt Hendricks, Buffalo Sabres' David Legwand and recently retired Pascal Dupuis.
Which player do you want to see represent the fans at the 2017 NHL All-Star Game?
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL No one is more deserving than Shawn Thornton
— Belal Jaber (@MrBelal) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL @mooredom , Dominic Moore!!!
— Johnnie (@DisneyDadSD) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL @Duper0009 Deserves to be involved in some capacity. Whether it be honorary coach/etc he deserves it!
— a.love (@aaronlove48) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL @Willie_Mitch33!
— el Duderino (@STALINSLAPSHOS) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL The ironman Andrew Cogliano #heartandsoul
— Frankie Gee (@fibermaniayarns) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac David Legwand has never played in one...he would be my pick.
— Eero Hurmerinta (@EeroH84) February 1, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac @ESPN_NHL I could get behind Matt Hendricks or Shawn Thornton. #heartandsoul
— Pine-Sol (@ViscaBrendan) February 2, 2016
@ESPNJoeyMac I wish they had this so many times when Greg Campbell was on the #Bruins Always gave us everything he had.
— KeithWass (@KeithWass) February 1, 2016