(AAron Ontiveroz, The Denver Post)
It was Rocky ... Really Rocky ... Hockey.
Through six seasons, three ownerships, seemingly relentless talk of the team folding or moving, a revolving door on the locker room and one playoff berth, and with a loyal cadre of fans (but not enough of them), the Colorado Rockies were the state's first chance in the NHL from 1976-82.
As part of the Avalanche's recognition of the state's hockey history Saturday night at the game against Columbus, seven former members of the Rockies — including Hall of Fame winger Lanny McDonald, intimidating defenseman Barry Beck and one-time captain Wilf Paiement — signed autographs for a long line of fans on the Pepsi Center concourse.