The grandson of Pierre Lacroix delivered his grandfather’s Hockey Hall of Fame induction speech Monday night in Toronto.

Max Lacroix, 19, spoke from the heart.

His grandfather entered the hall, posthumously, in the builders category after an accomplished career as general manager of the Colorado Avalanche, winning Stanley Cups in 1996 and 2002. Lacroix died in December 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. He was 72.

Here are snippets of Max Lacroix’s speech as broadcast on NHL Network.

“Pierre was famous for saying he was as good as the people around him. So, we express our deepest gratitude to those who were part of this incredible journey. … Pierre also passionately emphasized that the logo represented class and character. Therefore, to all the players, coaches, trainers, staff and executives … thank for you for embracing that commitment to excellence.”

“My grandfather was larger than life. It’s just a testament to how he was a true visionary, leader and competitor. Uncle Pete, as known to many, was certainly a rare breed. Pierre’s devotion to family and unique approach to building bonds within his teams were truly exceptional. He possessed the extraordinary ability to ignite the fire and belief in those around him. And he recognized that it is the little details that can make the difference. … One of Pierre’s secret weapons in forging these unbreakable bonds was his love for food. He recognized a shared meal was often the setting for the most genuine connections.” 

“Perhaps one of the most endearing qualities of Pierre was his unwavering loyalty to his players, as if they were his own family. He didn’t just stand with them during the triumphs. He was there for the personal and significant moments of their lives. Together, he and (his wife) Coco were present at the hospital when a player welcomed their first-born into the world. Celebrating their joy and offering support, not just as their general manager, but as a friend and a mentor. In the end, Pierre understood that winning championships was not just about the strategies on the ice, but building lasting relationships.”

“Papa was truly my best friend and we shared a special bond. I’m so honored to be standing on one of those most prestigious stages in hockey, just telling the world how proud I am of my best friend. And I thank you all for this moment.”

Pierre Lacroix is certainly deserving of the honor.

He oversaw the franchise’s successful transition from Quebec to Colorado, winning a championship in their first year. Lacroix stepped down as GM in 2006 but remained with the Avs as team president until 2013. Lacroix’s legacy includes high-profile trades for players such as Patrick Roy, Ray Bourque and Rob Blake.

Avalanche 5, Kraken 1

What happened: Colorado rebounded from a lopsided home loss with a resilient road victory Monday night in Seattle.

What went right: Coach Jared Bednar challenged for goalie interference in the first period and the Kraken scoring play was reversed. A two-goal second period put the Avs ahead, 2-1, with goals from Mikko Rantanen and Ross Colton (power play). Colorado extended its lead in the third with a trio of goals; Cale Makar, Jonathan Drouin (his first with the Avs) and Valeri Nichushkin (power play).

What went wrong: Brandon Tanev scored in the first period to give the Kraken a 1-0 lead.

Between the pipes: Alexandar Georgiev made 18-of-19 saves. Seattle’s Joey Daccord stopped 26 of Colorado’s 31 shots on goal.

Roster moves: Defenseman Sam Malinski made his NHL debut. Forward Joel Kiviranta, signed on Sunday to a one-year contract, played in his first Avalanche game. Defenseman Seth Jones, called up from the AHL, made his Avs debut.

What’s next: The Avalanche (9-5-0) host the Anaheim Ducks, 7 p.m. Wednesday at Ball Arena.