Sabres raise Dominik Hasek’s name and No. 39 to arena rafters

The Buffalo Sabres raised Dominik Hasek’s name to the rafters, leaving the goalie nicknamed “The Dominator” nearly speechless. It was much easier, Hasek says, turning aside pucks during a 16-year NHL career than it has been accepting accolades. On Tuesday, Hasek was back in Buffalo, New York, where the Sabres paid tribute to their star goalie by retiring his No. 39 and raising a Hasek banner before losing 3-1 to the Detroit Red Wings. Hasek played for both teams, and won Stanley Cups with Detroit in 2002 and 2008. “I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of hearing Sabres fans cheering,” Hasek said. “Sabres fans are one of a kind and having your support means as much to me as any trophy that I have won.” Hasek was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in November. – Associated Press