Lidstrom to retire

This is certainly deserving of its own thread. Rumors are being substantiated in Detroit that Nick Lidstrom's storied NHL career will come to an end with a press conference in the morning. I'm young, but Lidstrom's the best defenseman I've gotten to see play and, without question, one of the best of all time.

 

A No. 5 banner is definitely headed to the crowded rafters at the Joe, likely during next season's home opener.

I really thought he had a couple more years left in him. But, he's walking (or skating) away with his health and before his skills eroded.

Truly one of the all-time great Red Wings, and that's saying something (the 1970s excluded). An amazing player and an even better person. He represented the team and the city with class.

 

He made the playoffs every single season he played in the NHL. Very curious how many guys can say that, especially ones with his longevity.

 

first European-born captain of a Stanley Cup champion.

One of two Detroit athletes calling it quits this week. Magglio Ordonez will retire in a special ceremony at the CoPa on Sunday.

 

But did they play 20 years?

 

Lidstrom then Borque as the best since Orr?

 

No, but close enough to be in the discussion. 17 for Pippen, 16 for Horry.

Edit to say Pippen is not in the discussion; the Bulls missed the playoffs his final season.

 

Denis Potvin?

And he never gets this kind of mention because he's so hated and because he's never been on a powerhouse team, but I put Pronger up there too. Chris, not Sean.

 

I agree with you on both of them.

 

Can't even enjoy relief on this as a Preds fan, because the Ryan Suter Sweepstakes just got even more expensive.

 

Detroit media seems pretty confident he'll land there. Nobody could replace Lidstrom, but Wings fans would welcome Suter with open arms.