Engrossed in a period of deep concern over where his hockey career was going, Reid Duke received a phone call in the fall that would alter his life forever.
It came five months ago Monday, with news his close uncle, Sheldon Reid, was one of four men who died in a plane crash that also killed former Alberta premier Jim Prentice.
“It was devastating,” said Duke, who made headlines last week when the 21-year-old Calgarian became the first player signed by the Vegas Golden Knights.
“It was so difficult for my family and I. It was right when I got back from (the Rangers’ prospects camp in) New York.