Koivu's ex-Minnesota teammates Niklas Backstrom, Marian Gaborik, Kyle Brodziak and Nick Schultz surprised the Wild captain and helped them celebrate his accomplishment before their game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Koivu, taken by the Wild with the sixth pick in the 2001 NHL Draft, became the 55th player in League history to play 1,000 games for the same team when he did so against the Dallas Stars on Dec. 1. Gaborik, Backstrom, Schultz and Brodziak came out bearing flowers and stuffed animals and were among the former teammates to offer congratulations during a pre-recorded montage.
Minnesota then showered Koivu with gifts, including the customary silver stick, a Tiffany crystal and a vacation for Koivu and his family. Koivu, Backstrom, Gaborik, Brodziak and Schultz all managed to get together for a photo they likely won't forget.
Instagram from @minnesotawild: A milestone night for Mikko. #M1KKO 💚
