The pre-game events both honored the all-stars, as was the norm, but was also a celebration of the Rocket's career.
Other no-shows in this all-star game was Ab McDonald, who was traded to the Chicago Black Hawks, as well as Dean Prentice and Phil Goyette, who were both out with an injury.
The new All-Star uniforms were a marked departure from any previous designs used in the NHL.
The white uniforms featured black and orange stripes originating from the collar on the front and back side of the jersey, descending down the sleeves, and meeting at the elbows.
An additional inner set of stripes formed a loop from the shoulder seam to above the elbows.