In this January 2, 2010 file photo, Michael Buble, minority stake in the Western Hockey League team in Vancouver Giants, poses in a Giants jersey. On Tuesday Buble took part in Vancouver Canucks practice. Giants photoGiants photo
Michael Bublé showed the Vancouver Canucks he can work a hockey stick almost as well as a microphone.
The Canadian pop star and life-long hockey fan got a chance to live a dream when he skated with the Canucks during a practice Tuesday.
"It was just the greatest day of my life, really," Bublé, a 36-year-old native of the Vancouver suburb of Burnaby, told reporters. "I had way too much fun. To get to do that, I guess, is every fan's wish."
The Canucks also appreciated the chance to skate with the multiple Grammy and Juno award winner.
"He's one of the best singers in the world, one of the most popular singers in the world, and he just wanted to spend the morning with his favourite team," said winger Alex Burrows. "That shows us that, even when he's got everything as a singer, he still would like to spend some time with us."
Bublé, a lifelong hockey fan who is a minority owner of the Vancouver Giants of the WHL, wore full Canucks gear, including a blue jersey and hockey pants. He also wore a helmet with no visor.
His only regret was that he did not deke goaltender Roberto Luongo and put the puck "upstairs" after racing in on goal with the puck. He hit the post.
"I thought he had Lou beat on that shootout, and it would have been nice to see him score," said Burrows.
"He looked pretty good out there actually," added Daniel Sedin.
Canucks coach Alain Vigneault was also impressed. But the bench boss said he would have to put Buble through a few "compete drills" before giving a full assessment.
"It was a different moment from a busy schedule for us," Vigneault said. "I think the boys enjoyed having him in the room. He's a big Canucks fan and a great ambassador for Canada and for Vancouver. When he came in this morning, we gave him the opportunity to showcase his skill set — and he did."