COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Detroit Red Wings will play their first game since the death of longtime owner Mike Ilitch when they face the Columbus Blue Jackets this afternoon at Nationwide Arena.
Ilitch died Friday at age 87.
Tributes to Ilitch continue to pour in from around the world. Among those offering condolences for the Ilitch family were former President George W. Bush, Red Wings legend Ted Lindsay and former Red Wings coach Mike Babcock.
Steve Yzerman, Brendan Shanahan, Lions, Pistons pay tribute to Mike Ilitch
Many organizations praise commitment, passion and philanthropic efforts of late Red Wings and Tigers owner.