Jarome Iginla's grandmother is ill, and as a result, he's been excused from participating in the NHL All-Star Game next week in Raleigh, N.C. The Calgary Flames released a statement from Iginla.
"It is always an honor to be a part of the NHL All Star Game but unfortunately I have to decline this year," said Iginla. "I just lost my grandfather in the spring and I have learned that my grandmother is not doing very well. With the way the season goes I don't get too many opportunities to see her, and as much as I was looking forward to being in North Carolina for the All Star Game, I just know that my mind will be elsewhere."
Danny Briere of the Philadelphia Flyers will replace Iginla at the game. Briere will join teammate (and housemate) Claude Giroux and coach Peter Laviolette at the event. He told the media after practice on Wednesday that his kids wanted him to participate in the game, and that the best part of making the Game is that his children get to come along with him.