The Genuine Article

When Steve Yzerman was an NHL rookie, he counted Brad Park among his team mates. Gilbert Perreault scored 31 goals for the Buffalo Sabres that year, and Tony Esposito played a final season in Chicago.

That's how long Yzerman has been around, and for most of those 22 years there were very few players you would rather have on your team.

Steve Yzerman retired yesterday. His selection for the Hockey Hall of Fame is automatic. But that just elevates him to the same status as guys like Denis Savard and Bernie Federko.

A Steve Yzerman wing would be more appropriate. Or maybe they should name the place after him.

Postscript: Matt at "On the Wings" has memories of Yzerman (including some priceless photos). But he left out one of the best.

Postscript II: It's impossible to imagine today, but the Red Wings never meant to draft Yzerman in the first place. Thanks to Eric at Off Wing Opinion for the link.