New York Rangers legend Adam Graves on his January 12th Empire City Casino visit & more

One of the most popular New York Rangers of all-time, Adam Graves was a notable member of the Stanley Cup-winning Rangers squad in 1994. That same season Graves was an NHL All-Star and the winner of the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. The Rangers have since retired #9, Graves' jersey number.

But Graves' 1994 accolades are only one part of his hockey career, which started in the mid-1980s. He also won a Stanley Cup with the Edmonton Oilers and was the recipient of the 2001 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy. Graves was also the winner of multiple Players' Player Awards, as evident of his long-term reputation as a favorite to NHL fans and players alike.

Alongside Mike Richter, Stéphane Matteau and Mike Hartman, Adam Graves is one of the legendary Rangers who will be present at New York's Empire City Casino on Saturday, January 12th. This will be the first time these players have all been on-property together at the Empire City Casino for a "family reunion" of sorts. The Casino Night Pre-Party is free to attend, with online pre-registration required; fans wishing to attend can RSVP here.

I had the pleasure of doing Q&A with Adam Graves himself, and highlights are below. More on Graves and his Smilezone Foundation can be found at www.smilezone.com, while more on this Empire City Casino event is online at www.empirecitycasino.com.

Is this your first trip to the Empire City Casino?

Adam Graves: No, I‘ve attended previous Rangers events at Empire City Casino!

What's to expect from your appearance at the Empire City Casino? Meeting and greeting fans?

Adam Graves: We’ll celebrate being a part of the New York Rangers family, share some stories with fans and enjoy the game!

You are often associated with being a 1994 Stanley Cup. Is that one of your proudest accomplishment?

Adam Graves: I am very proud and very fortunate to be a part of the ’94 New York Rangers team!

Rangers aside, are there any sports teams that you are passionate about?

Adam Graves: I’m passionate about hockey at all levels of the sport, but I also love World Cup Soccer.

Empire City Casino appearance aside, what is coming up for you?

Adam Graves: I work with the Rangers organization on a variety of initiatives including MSG’s Garden of Dreams Foundation and the Junior Rangers Rookie Series, which helps promote youth hockey by making the sport more affordable. Additionally, I work with the Hartford Wolfpack and the CHL Prospects Game.

When not busy with appearances and work, how do you like to spend your free time?

Adam Graves: I spend my free time with my family as well as work on my Smilezone Foundation.

Finally, any last words for the kids?

Adam Graves: Work hard, follow your dreams and be proud of who you are!