One of the most great joys of being a sports fan is witnessing the redemption stories that are carved out in every league, every season.
Players, coaches—even underachieving organizations can become vessels of triumph once they start turning their fortunes around.
The best redemption stories require a team or an individual to triumph over adversity. Here are the best examples we've seen in the NHL so far in the 2016-17 season.
Matt Irwin
- Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
His name doesn't make headlines, but journeyman defenseman Matt Irwin has fought his way back to the NHL level after a one-year detour to the minor leagues.