Feature Photo: Getty Images

Jeff Skinner officially reached an incredible accomplishment by playing in his 1,000th NHL game April 2, but there were a few standout moments leading up to the game that made the occasion even more special for the Buffalo Sabres forward.

Playing in the league for 14 seasons, Skinner has steadily become a favourite personality around the league and among fans, always bringing his trademark smile wherever he goes.

“My first year, he never let me pay for dinner once. … Every year, he’s continued being such a good pro and takes care of himself and just being a good guy around the team. He always brings a smile. So, he’s the perfect teammate. I have a lot to thank for him.” said teammate, Rasmus Dahlin.

He’s also a known fan of the hit Netflix show, Emily in Paris. Constantly keeping his teammates informed on plot line updates, Lily Collins herself caught wind of his fandom and posted a clip of Skinner mic’d up.

It’s safe to say this endearing and unexpected crossover has had ongoing references since then.

Ahead of his 1,000th game, the Emily in Paris actress sent a special video message from the set to congratulate Skinner on his achievement.

“That was good, that was cool!” said Skinner in reaction to the video. “I didn’t know she kept up with me or the Sabres, so that was cool to see.” Skinner said further.

Continuing with the pre-game highlights, Skinner’s teammates came together to bring the forward out as a special guest on a 1,000th game reunion edition of his own Between 2 Stalls series.

Skinner became the host of this series which he also wrote and produced while featuring his teammates for a fun, quirky way to get to know them.

Wrapping up the night to complete the perfect storyline, the Sabres took a 6-2 win over the Washington Capitals thanks to five Sabres players recording multi-point nights to bring out that winning Skinner smile.

“You kind of go through. … who helped you out and who helped get you here and I think you start thinking of people and the list keeps growing the more you think. … It’s ironic, I guess, because those are the people that I should be thanking. They are the ones that have helped me get here.” said Skinner post game.