Two former Vancouver Canucks fan favourites, Alex Edler and Kevin Bieksa, will lace up as teammates once again as they take part in the Skate for LA charity event, “A Celebration to Support Fire Recovery Efforts in Los Angeles.” The tournament, set for February 23 at Crypto.com Arena, aims to raise funds for those affected by the devastating Palisades Fires that swept through Los Angeles.
The event will feature a four-team, single-elimination tournament composed of former NHLers, celebrities, and local first responders. Edler and Bieksa, both key members of the Canucks’ 2011 Stanley Cup Final run, will take the ice for Team Red coached by Vince Vaughn and Cobie Smulders.
Adding to the star power, celebrities Justin Bieber and Steve Carell will participate, along with former pro athletes like MLB’s Joe Mauer and NFL’s Matt Leinart. The event also features other high-profile coaches, with teams led by actors Danny DeVito and Will Ferrell, rapper Snoop Dogg, sports broadcaster Al Michaels and others. Music performances from Kaskade, Jordan Davis, and Lauren Spencer-Smith will add to the festivities.
A Special Reunion for Edler and Bieksa
Edler spent 15 seasons in Vancouver before signing with the Los Angeles Kings in free agency in 2021. In 925 games with the Canucks, the Swedish blueliner notched 409 points, including 99 goals, while becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in games played and points by a defenseman- before being passed by current captain Quinn Hughes. In 2024, Edler returned to Vancouver to sign a one-day contract and retire as a Canuck.
Bieksa played 10 seasons in Vancouver before spending three years with the Anaheim Ducks. In 597 games with the Canucks, he recorded 241 points and, like Edler, was an integral part of the team’s blue line during their run to the 2011 Stanley Cup Final. Since retiring, Bieksa has become a key voice on Hockey Night in Canada and serves as an analyst on Sportsnet’s intermission panel.
Sponsored by bet365