from Pat Caputo of the Oakland Press,
But with all due respect to hockey tradition, and Kelly’s place in the sport’s lore on both sides of the border, a Fedorov retirement ceremony would be all the rage in this town.
Granted, Fedorov had a quirky personality, and his persona in comparison to that of Steve Yzerman and Lidstrom didn’t fly with many Red Wings’ fans. It was a terrible decision to leave for the Ducks. It was always odd to see Fedorov in another uniform, and he was routinely booed every time he touched the puck wearing an opposing sweater at Joe Louis Arena.
But Fedorov was undeniably an important cog in the Red Wings’ success as an incredibly gifted skater and two-way talent on three Stanley Cup championship teams. He had a season for the ages and won a Hart Trophy as NHL MVP. Fedorov was a no-brainer selection for the Hockey Hall of Fame. It’s nearly four years since Fedorov’s induction. What is the holdup for his number retirement? He was there for Winter Classic festivities a few years ago and very warmly greeted. Like with Kelly, who is 91, it’s time to let bygones be bygones.
Considering their storied past, the Red Wings have been relatively stingy when it comes to retiring numbers.
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