COLUMBUS, Ohio – Somebody mentioned to Columbus Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella that several of his players weren't born the last time the Detroit Red Wings missed the playoffs.
Tortorella then spoke of his admiration for the way the Red Wings go about their business.
"They do it the right way," Tortorella said before Tuesday's game. "They develop people, they've drafted well. They are very patient and allow players to develop the right way -- great management, great coaching, great drafting. It's a culture."
Tortorella said a conversation he had with Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill earlier this season revealed the club's strong leadership in the dressing room.