A decade ago, the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, ON was named the captain of the Erie Otters ahead of his final season in the Ontario Hockey League; a decade after his final year wearing the #97 for the Otters, the organization will send the number ubiquitous with the generational phenomenon to the rafters of the Erie Insurance Arena, never again to be worn by any player in the navy and gold.

In association with Connor McDavid, the McDavid family, and the Edmonton Oilers organization, the Erie Otters are proud and honored to announce the forthcoming retirement of the #97 - 97 days from now on Friday, January 10, 2025 for McDavid Jersey Retirement Night (pres. by Rebich Investments and Erie Apparel).

The announcement was made by owner/governor Jim Waters, general manager Dave Brown, and the Otters organization on Saturday, October 5 to commemorate the 13th Anniversary of McDavid's first goal at the Erie Insurance Arena, and as the current Otters prepare to face off against the Saginaw Spirit - the visiting team on January 10.