One Day Later, Wings Push On

The debate about whether Mike Ilitch was more devoted to the Red Wings or the Tigers had no validity once the little shrew of a commissioner hamstrung the most aggressive owner in sports. Ilitch spent limitlessly to make his teams better, because the best owners of the best teams were those who were in it for more than a profit.

Mike Ilitch wanted to win. He did with the Wings, four times. He won because he allowed the organ-I-zation to spend money in the right places. He brought in Bowman for triple the salary any other coach in hockey was earning.

He levied no "max" on signing the best free agents. Money was no object because he had enough of it.

He tried with the Tigers and how appropriate would it be if the team finally brought one home this year, 9 months after he's gone. The team that everyone said would be dismantled, but hasn't been, is a team constructed with an open Ilitch wallet.

It's a little sad that Mike Ilitch won't be around to see his arena opened next year. I say a little because the chatter about his health has been out here for more than five years. None of us were surprised to hear the news yesterday. Saddened? Of course. But we knew the end was pretty close.

Mike Ilitch delivered the greatest moments of many of our lives. Do not downplay that. The construction of the Wing dynasty was accomplished with the Ilitch decree that winning was the only goal. Not "getting in", Kenny. Winning Cups.

Lots of great tributes to Ilitch going around today. The best tribute the Holland-built Wings could give tonight would be to beat the little brothers in Columbus.

It's a Live Blog, bitches. LGRW, farewell to Mr. I and FKH ASAP.

One Day Later, Wings Push On

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