PHOTOS: Hammond's new mask features Hamburglar, tribute to Ottawa's Butterfly Boy
Ottawa Senators goaltender Andrew Hammond's new mask features both a nod to his nickname and a tribute to a local hero.
Hammond and mask painter Jay Bartziokas revealed the finished product Tuesday, which includes a Hamburglar on the right-hand side as well as the McDonald's "Golden Arches" on the chin:
There is also a tribute to local inspiration Jonathan Pitre on the back:
Pitre is a 15-year-old Senators fan who suffers from a rare medical condition known as epidermolysis bullosa, a genetic disease that causes skin to blister, shear, and scar, making it difficult for Pitre to walk, eat, and breathe.
“I wanted him to feel special and let him know how much he has inspired me, the fans of Ottawa, and the entire hockey world,” Hammond told Andrew Duffy of the Ottawa Citizen.
Pitre became a fixture of the Senators' playoff run last season and has raised over $100,000 for EB charity Debra Canada.
“I think Senators fans attached themselves to Jonathan and his story because he teaches us all a lesson: a reminder that we are only given this one chance at life - and we have to enjoy the moments we have,” Hammond said.