TORONTO - When fresh-off-the-boat Swede Nicklas Lidstrom was asked what sweater he would like to wear for Detroit, he asked for No. 9.
"I learned my first (lesson) about Red Wing history that day," said the new member of the Hockey Hall Of Fame during his induction speech Monday. "That's the great thing about hockey, someone is always there to point out your mistakes."
In this case, a Wings' trainer explained that digit was long retired, the providence or Gordie Howe. Lidstrom would have to make his own mark on the game, which he did with distinction for 20 seasons starting in 1991.