A crowded 2015 Hockey Hall of Fame induction class still won’t likely satisfy fans who feel yesteryear’s stars have been denied.
But there is no denying the accomplishments of seven people who were voted in by the selection committee on Monday.
As expected, Detroit Red Wings multi-Norris Trophy and Stanley Cup winner Nicklas Lidstrom made it on the first ballot. Defenceman Chris Pronger, who was going to receive strong support, did so as well. Forward Sergei Fedorov, a teammate of Lidstrom’s when Detroit was a powerhouse, is also in the Hall on his initial nomination.
The 18-person committee also made an attempt to cut back a long waiting list, choosing productive defenceman Phil Housley.