The night started off well, as Eagles head coach Doug Pederson was introduced and those who had already trekked from the many tempting food and beverage options behind their seats stood and applauded. Wearing 18 (yes, Mike Richards old number), Pederson walked to center ice for a ceremonial puck drop, shook hands with Tampa captain Steven Stamkos and Flyers captain Claude Giroux (who handed him the puck), and shook hands with well-wishing fans as he exited down the tunnel behind the Flyers bench.
In case you’re wondering, yes Richards was the last to wear 18. And it is the 2018 Super Bowl.