On Thursday night, Sam Gagner participated in his 1,000th NHL game. However, there was a time in his career when a stint in the minors made this achievement appear improbable. Throughout the video montage in Winnipeg on Thursday night honoring his 1,000th NHL game, Sam Gagner got many touching words. Taylor Hall, John Tavares, and Connor McDavid were among those who offered their congratulations, but a letter from Alex Edler perfectly captured the 33-year-old.