Ice Hockey had always belonged to Canada the way baseball has always belonged to America. The first jolt to this notion came in the 70’s when the U.S.S.R. almost took down Canada in a thrilling series before succumbing in the 7th game. The table had been set. In 1980, the USA pulled off a gigantic upset in the 1980 Olympics, but that was an aberration, or maybe looking back it was a hint of what was to come. In the 90’s Canada still remained the strongest power in hockey but they heard the footsteps coming from many other countries. Mike Modano was at the forefront of the rise of hockey in the USA at the professional level. Along with some other very talented countrymen Modano helped America get to the table where they finally belonged. Entering this season he had accumulated 1106 points in 1101 games and remains one of the top players today. Jersey dates to his first season of 1989-90 when he was a member of the Minnesota North Stars. North Stars emblem on front. Inside collar tag “Maska Air-Knit.” Sleeves have North Stars logo and his number “9.” Reverse has “Modano” on plate over “9.” Jersey shows great, even wear, with evidence of stick marks, and many washings. One repair in the elbow area. A beauty of a sweater from this Future Hall of Famer’s rookie year.