The Detroit Red Wings are planning on retiring the No. 5 in honor of former captain Nicklas Lidstrom in March. However, if manager Ken Holland has it his way, the No. 5 will get one more use before it finds its place in the rafters of Joe Louis Arena.
Nicklas Lidstrom expected to play in Alumni Game
The Red Wings former captain is expected to wear the No. 5 one more time, as he is apparently willing to play in one of two Alumni Games.
Claus Andersen
The Red Wings are expecting Lidstrom to participate in at least one of the club’s alumni games that will take place as part of the festivities surrounding the 2014 Winter Classic. Holland spoke to Lidstrom in order to finalize the jersey retirement ceremony and mentioned the possibility of his participation in the Alumni Game, via MLive.com:
“He was very receptive to the idea, but there’s nothing official yet,” Red Wings general manager Ken Holland said.
“He mentioned he had intention of participating in the Winter Classic (alumni game).”
Considering Lidstrom retired last season, one would imagine that he will be in phenomenal shape for the game, especially in comparison to guys who have been retired for years.
In addition to Lidstrom, Holland is hoping to convince Steve Yzerman to play in the game. Yzerman stated last year that he wouldn’t be doing so, but Holland is hopeful he can convince him to play.
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