Current and former Blazers react to franchise suspending operations

"This is sad news as I have a lot of great memories in Oklahoma City. It was because of their support that I stayed there the whole time. I had a lot of offers to play in other places, but the support was amazing. I hadn’t really heard of Oklahoma until I got there. It was a great thing.” — Blazers legend Joe Burton, the Central Hockey League’s all-time scorer

"I feel sorry for the loyal and great fans of Oklahoma City because there won’t be professional hockey this season. I’m just kind of taking it all in right now like everybody else. I’m disappointed, but I know it’s nothing personal. It was a business decision. Today is a pretty sad day, but everything happens for a reason.” — Blazers coach Doug Sauter

"Surprised, for sure. We knew there was some uncertainty, but we still had hope. It’s such a great organization with great tradition that it’s tough. I’m hoping to find another place to play, but I want to thank the Oklahoma City fans who treated me so well during my two years here. They helped make it special.” — defenseman Stacey Bauman

"I was pretty shocked. You never think something like this is going to happen. But it’s a business, and that’s what it was: a business decision. My head is still spinning about it, but you have to move on. Me and my brother (Ted) were both looking forward to coming back.” — forward Bill Vandermeer

"A little shocked but not totally. It’s difficult for me because of all the memories and all the great people. But it’s not like I haven’t been there before. I saw it happen after the 1972-73 season. Again in 1976-77 and in 1981-82. That’s just the way it goes.” — former Blazers announcer John Brooks