Detroit Red Wings Best Players of All Time

Brandon McNally

The Detroit Red Wings are an iconic hockey franchise that has been thrilling fans since 1926. Based in Detroit, the team is one of the original six teams of the National Hockey League (NHL). Over its long history, they have won four Stanley Cup championships and numerous division titles. The current roster includes some of the best players from around North America as well as Europe. With a passionate fan base and commitment to excellence both on and off ice, it’s no wonder why so many consider them to be among hockey’s elite clubs.

Table of Contents

1. Steve Yzerman

Center

Steve Yzerman

Steve Yzerman was born in Cranbrook, British Columbia and raised in Penticton. He played hockey for the Detroit Red Wings from 1983 to 2006 and won five Stanley Cups with them.

In 1997, he was named captain of the Red Wings and led them to another championship in 2002. He is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and has been inducted into several other sports Halls of Fame including the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame (2003), and U SPORTS Hall Of Fame (2006) as well as being honored with an Order Of Canada (2008).

Steve Yzerman currently serves as president of Rogers Communications Inc., one of Canada's largest telecom companies Steve Yzerman was a well-known player in the NHL and Olympic Games. 

He played for the Detroit Red Wings from 1988 to 2016, winning 5 Stanley Cups (1991, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2013). He also captained Canada to their first-ever Gold Medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

In 2009 he became General Manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning and led them to two Eastern Conference Championships before retiring after the 2016 season. 

Steve is currently an assistant coach with Team Canada at various international events such as the World Juniors and Men's Hockey Federation Asia Cup 2018 which they are defending champions of.

2. Nicklas Lidström

Defenseman

Nicklas Lidström

Nicklas Lidström was a highly successful defenceman in his playing days and is now considered one of the all-time greats. He began his career with Västerås IK before moving to Detroit Red Wings where he won several championships and accolades, including being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015.

Lidström also represented Sweden at numerous tournaments, including the Winter Olympics and World Championships, wearing the national team's colors with distinction on many occasions. 

His passion for hockey never wavered throughout his illustrious career – he still regularly attends games today as a fan. Nicklas Lidström was drafted 53rd overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1989 NHL Draft.

He played his entire career with the Red Wings, winning three Stanley Cups and making an appearance in six other Finals. Nicklas Lidström also represented Sweden at several Winter Olympics, including at the 2006 Turin where he won a silver medal. 

In 2004, Nicklas Lidström helped Team Sweden win gold at the World Championships in Prague.

3. Sergei Fedorov

Sergei Fedorov

Sergei Fedorov was born in Pskov, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union on December 13, 1969. He played for CSKA Moscow before moving to Detroit Red Wings in 1989 where he would spend the majority of his NHL career.

He also played for Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Columbus Blue Jackets and Washington Capitals before ending his playing career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk in 2009. 

Fedorov won a Stanley Cup with Detroit Red Wings in 2002 and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015 after being nominated twice prior to that time.

He has represented Russia at both the World Championships and Olympics multiple times over the course of his career Sergei Fedorov was a dominant player in the NHL for many years. 

He is most famous for his time with the Detroit Red Wings, where he helped lead them to several championships. Sergei Fedorov also represented Russia on several occasions at major tournaments, including the World Championships and Winter Olympics.

In 2001, Sergei Fedorov retired from playing professional hockey to focus on other interests outside of hockey. He later returned to play in minor leagues before retiring again in 2012 after a long career that saw him win numerous awards and accolades. 

Nowadays, Sergei Fedorov is an ambassador for various charities and gives back to society by working with organizations that help children and families in need.

4. Pavel Datsyuk

Center

Pavel Datsyuk Career

  • National team: Russia
  • NHL Draft: 171st overall, 1998
  • Detroit Red Wings

Pavel Datsyuk is a Russian professional ice hockey player. He previously played for the Detroit Red Wings and was their captain from 2009 to 2015. Pavel Datsyuk was born on July 20th, 1978 in Sverdlovsk, Russia.

His family relocated to Yekaterinburg when he was three years old. 

While playing junior hockey with HC Sibir Novosibirsk, Pavel quickly developed into one of the best players in his league and attracted interest from several NHL teams including the Detroit Red Wings who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 1998.

After spending two seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Pavel made his debut with the Detroit Redwings during the 2001-02 season where he spent most of his time playing alongside fellow countryman Vladimir Konstantinov on what would become known as "The Triplets Line". 

In 2006-07 season, after recording 83 points (37 goals and 50 assists) over 82 games for Detroit's American Hockey League affiliate team Adirondack Phantoms, Pavel won both rookies of year honors as well as The MasterCard Memorial Cup awarded by Canadian Professional Ice Hockey League (CPIHL).

Following a successful 2007-08 campaign which saw him score 44 goals and 87 points over 80 games for Detroit - second only behind teammate Nicklas Lidstrom. 

Datsyuk captured both the scoring title and the Norris Trophy award as top defenseman in NHL respectively becoming only third player ever to win both awards within same calendar year; joining Gordie Howe (1952) & Bobby Orr (1970). 

After leading all Eastern Conference defensemen with 56 points during the 2008 playoffs; helping lead Red Wings to their tenth Stanley Cup championship against Pittsburgh Penguins – also winning Conn Smythe trophy.

Tt appeared that age may finally be catching up on arguably game's greatest Center fielder/defenseman at 33 years old but another stellar season followed lockout shortened 2012-13 campaign registering career highs 113 points.

While once again captained the club throughout entire postseason run culminating in another Championship victory against Boston Bruins en route to becoming first Russian national team member ever to hoist Lord Stanley’s cup on home soil following 5 previous defeats since Soviet Union’s last championship back in 1991.

Also Played For: 2014–15 nhl season, 2012–13 nhl season

5. Gordie Howe

Gordie Howe Career

  • Detroit Red Wings
  • Houston Aeros
  • Hartford Whalers

He was one of the most iconic and successful players in NHL history, winning eleven MVP Awards and three Hart Trophies.

Howe also became a hockey legend for his record-breaking feats on the ice - he is credited with setting multiple records for goals (1,851), assists (2,724) and points (4,953).

He passed away at the age of 88 after a long battle with dementia. Gordie Howe is one of the most iconic NHL players of all time and was a dominant force on both sides of the ice. 

He led Detroit to eight Stanley Cup championships during his illustrious career, and he also won an Olympic gold medal with Canada in 1972.

After retiring from professional play, Gordie Howe served as president of the Red Wings organization for many years before passing away in 2011 at the age of 88. 

The Hockey Hall Of Fame inducted Gordie Howe into its hallowed halls in 1996, and he has since been recognized as one of the sport's greatest-ever ambassadors.

6. Henrik Zetterberg

Center

Henrik Zetterberg Career

  • National team: Sweden
  • NHL Draft: 210th overall, 1999
  • Detroit Red Wings

Henrik Zetterberg was born in Njurunda, Sweden on October 9th 1980. He played for Timrå IK of the Swedish Hockey League before being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 1999.

Zetterberg has spent his entire NHL career with the Red Wings, amassing over 1000 points and winning four Stanley Cups (2002–03, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2013). 

In international play he has represented Sweden at numerous tournaments including the Winter Olympics in 2002 and 2006 as well as World Championships in 2001 and 2007.

Henrik is married to Emma Löfgren and they have two children together - Tilda (born 2004) and Leo (born 2009). Henrik Zetterberg is a well-known NHL player who has played for the Detroit Red Wings since 1997. 

During his career, Henrik Zetterberg has won numerous awards and accolades, including two Olympic gold medals and nine world championships.

In 2018, Henrik announced his retirement from professional hockey after 19 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings. Outside of ice hockey, Henrik is also an avid supporter of various charities and causes - he was recently appointed as a UNICEF ambassador. Thank you, Henrik.

7. Alex Delvecchio

Center

Alex Delvecchio

Alex Delvecchio was a star player in the NHL for many years. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1977. Delvecchio played for several teams, most notably the Detroit Red Wings where he won numerous awards and trophies.

After his playing career ended, Alex became a coach and manager in the NHL. He is currently working as an Assistant Coach with the Philadelphia Flyers. 

Alex is still actively involved in hockey and has served as President of both The Hockey Foundation of Canada and The Canadian Olympic Committee during his time as a volunteer operator/member of these organizations' boards of directors or executive committees respectively.

In addition to his work with hockey-related organizations, Alex also spends time volunteering at various cancer research facilities throughout North America Alex's passion for helping others shines through every day - he truly embodies what it means to be philanthropic.

8. Brendan Shanahan

Brendan Shanahan

Brendan Shanahan is a retired professional ice hockey player. He played for the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Düsseldorfer EG and Hartford Whalers in the NHL.

In 2013, Brendan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. After retiring from playing professionally, Brendan became an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings in 2011-2012 before becoming a head coach on July 1st, 2014.

As of November 2017, Brendan's team has won four Stanley Cup championships - most recently in 2018 - making him one of only two coaches to win multiple titles with three different teams (the other being Scotty Bowman). 

Brendan Shanahan is a retired professional ice hockey player who played his entire career with the New York Rangers.

He was drafted by the Devils in 1987 and spent 10 seasons with them before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1997. Shanahan won two Stanley Cups as a member of the Detroit Red Wings, in 2002 and 2009, and also represented Canada at three Winter Olympics (2002, 2006, 2010). 

After retiring from playing he served as General Manager of the Colorado Avalanche for four years before taking up a role as Director of Player Safety for the NHL.

9. Ted Lindsay

Ted Lindsay

Ted Lindsay was a Hall of Fame player and captain for the Detroit Red Wings. Lindsay played his entire NHL career with the Red Wings, scoring over 1,000 points in total.

He won four Stanley Cups as a member of the Red Wings, and also scored 44 goals in 48 playoff games. After retiring from hockey, Ted Lindsay ran for political office in Michigan and served two terms as mayor of Detroit.

In 1966, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame alongside Gordie Howe and Bobby Hull He was a left wing for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Black Hawks. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966. Lindsay scored over 1,000 goals in his career and is considered one of the greatest players ever to play the game.

He played during a time when hockey was becoming more popular and he helped make it an even bigger sport than it already had been. Lindsay has always been remembered as one of the nicest guys in hockey and he continues to be admired by many fans today.

10. Chris Chelios

Defenseman

Chris Chelios Career

  • Played for : Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, EHC Biel, Detroit Red Wings, Atlanta Thrashers
  • NHL Draft : 40th overall, 1981, Montreal Canadiens
  • Playing career : 1984–2010, Medal record

Chelios is a defenseman who played for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings. Chelios was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1981 and won two Stanley Cups with them before moving to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1993.

He helped lead them to three more championships before retiring after the 2003-2004 season. Chelios has been inducted into both the Hockey Hall of Fame (2013) and the United States Hockey Hall of Fame (2011). 

In 2011, Chelios became head coach of EHC Biel in Switzerland where he led them to their first championship in 2013.

Chris currently resides in Michigan with his wife Randi and son Wojciech Jr., who also plays hockey professionally Chris Chelios is a legendary defenseman who played in the NHL for over 20 years. 

He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2006 and is currently an analyst on NBC Sports Network. Chelios was born in Detroit, Michigan, and played high school hockey at West Catholic High School before playing college hockey at the University of Wisconsin.

After graduating from college, Chelios joined the Atlanta Thrashers as their first-round pick (40th overall) in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft. He spent most of his career with Montreal Canadiens, but also played for Chicago Blackhawks, St Louis Blues, and Dallas Stars during his time in the NHL. 

In 2002, Chris Chelios won a silver medal with Team USA at the Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City – becoming only the second player ever to win both an Olympic gold medal AND a Stanley Cup championship (the other being Wayne Gretzky).

In 1996 he led the United States to their first World Cup victory since 1994 and finished as tournament MVP; two years later he helped Canada reach their fourth consecutive world cup final appearance – where they were defeated by Sweden 4–1. 

Chelias has also represented Team USA internationally at several other tournaments including three IIHF World Championships (1990 [silver], 1992 [bronze] & 1996), two World Junior Championships (1985 & 1987), and one Under-18 Championship (1984). 

Chris Chelios retired from professional ice hockey following the 2010–11 season having scored 264 goals & 501 assists for 793 points while accumulating 1128 penalty minutes in 1020 games played – ranking him 2nd all-time among defensemen behind Paul Coffey’s record total of 1234 points (.927 PIM).

11. Darren McCarty

Right winger

Darren McCarty

Darren McCarty is a 50-year-old Canadian professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL).

McCarty started playing organized hockey at the age of four, and was soon dominating his competition. He joined the Junior B Burnaby Express in 1989–90 and scored 103 points in just 54 games, helping lead them to their first provincial championship.

The Vancouver Canucks drafted him with their sixth round pick, 158th overall, in the 1990 NHL Entry Draft. However, he would only spend one season with Vancouver (1992–93) before being traded to Montreal Canadiens for François Beauchemin. 

In total McCarty played 716 regular season games over 15 seasons with Montreal/Colorado Avalanche, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers; recording 288 goals and 564 assists for 972 points along the way.

After being released by New York following their playoff loss to Tampa Bay Lightning in 2010–11 he signed as a free agent with Colorado Buffaloes but retired after just five games due to injury. 

McCarty returned to play one game for HC Davos of Switzerland's NLA during the 2012–13 season before retiring once again from active playing days at age 47 on January 21st 2013 Darren has since become an ambassador for many charities including. 

Operation Smile which helps children suffering from facial deformities, Reach Out Canada which provides support services such as food banks and winter heating assistance programs. 

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles ’ Ronald Reagan Medical Center Sports Legacy Program where proceeds benefited pediatric cancer research initiatives through. 

Athlete Assistance Programs (AAP), Special Olympics Southern California’s Orange County Chapter where he serves on its Board of Directors; furthermore acts as spokesperson and participates in events such as Relay For Life.

In addition, he also coaches youth hockey teams part-time. Darren married longtime girlfriend Stacey Hamilton on November 25th 2014; they reside together in Brentwood Tennessee Retired from full-time coaching duties after three years coaching high school aged players.

12. Vladimir Konstantinov

Defenseman

Vladimir Konstantinov

Vladimir Konstantinov was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 1989. He played for CSKA Moscow before joining the Red Wings. Konstantinov is a defenseman and shot right-handed.

His NHL career lasted from 1989 to 1997, with stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Buffalo Sabres, Toronto Maple Leafs and Calgary Flames along the way. 

In 1998 he retired from hockey and moved back to his hometown of Murmansk where he currently works as a police officer Konstantinov played for the Soviet Union from 1984 to 1997 and won a total of three World Championships, as well as two Olympic gold medals.

Konstantinov was known for his quick hands and excellent play on defense. After retiring from playing, Konstantinov became a coach with HC Sochi in Russia before taking over head coaching duties at SKA Saint Petersburg in 2016.

13. Dylan Larkin

Center

Dylan Larkin Career

  • 2012–13: U.S. NTDP Juniors
  • 2012–13: U.S. NTDP U17
  • 2013–14: U.S. NTDP Juniors
  • 2013–14: U.S. NTDP U18
  • 2014–15: University of Michigan
  • 2014–15: Grand Rapids Griffins
  • 2015–16: Detroit Red Wings

Dylan Larkin is a 26-year-old American professional ice hockey winger who currently plays for the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League (NHL).

He was drafted 8th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft and made his debut with them during the 2015–16 season. 

In addition to his time with Detroit, he has also played for HC Kladno in Czech Republic, IK Oskarhamn in Sweden, and EHC München of Germany's Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) over four seasons each.

Larkin won gold at both the 2014 World Junior Championship and 2016 Winter Olympics as part of Team USA's triumphant campaign in both tournaments; making him one of only two players ever to win gold at both junior championships (the other being Sidney Crosby). 

After suffering a broken wrist late into 2017–18 season while playing for HC Sochi of Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), Larkin returned to play 28 games later scoring 16 goals helping lead Detroit to their 11th Stanley Cup championship victory since 1997.

Dylan was born on July 30th 1996 in Waterford Michigan which makes him just 26 years old when this article is written.

Also Played For: university of michigan hockey, michigan hockey

14. Chris Osgood

Goaltender

Chris Osgood

Chris Osgood is a professional ice hockey player who was born in Peace River, Alberta. He played for the Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets before retiring in 2013.

Osgood has won two Stanley Cups with the Red Wings (2002, 2008) and one with the Blue Jackets (2011). In 2005, he was named to the NHL's All-Star Second Team after recording 54 points (27 goals, 23 assists) in 56 games.

Chris Osgood currently serves as an analyst on NBCSN's coverage of the Olympic Games alongside Pierre McGuire and Jeremy Roenick.. Osgood was a key member of the Detroit Red Wings teams that won three Stanley Cups in the 1990s.

He played for the New York Islanders, St. Louis Blues and finally retired with the Detroit Red Wings after 11 seasons in 2011. Osgood is considered one of the best goaltenders to ever play in NHL history and he remains second all-time in wins (416) behind Martin Brodeur.

15. Kris Draper

Center

Kris Draper

Kris Draper is a professional ice hockey player who has played for the Detroit Red Wings and Minnesota Wild. He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the 1990 NHL Entry Draft and quickly became an integral part of their team.

In 2002, he led all players in scoring with 81 points and helped his team win their sixth Stanley Cup championship. After his stellar performance with Detroit, Kris signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Wild in 2003 where he continued to be one of their most productive players over the following years.

At age 37, Kris announced his retirement from professional hockey after playing parts of eight seasons with both teams. Since retiring from hockey, Kris has taken up coaching duties for several minor league teams including stints as head coach for both Flint (OHL) and Muskegon (USHL). 

In 2017-18 season, he joined TSN's Hockey Central coverage as an analyst alongside Ron MacLean and Ray Ferraro on Friday night games during regular season play along side Gord Miller on Saturday nights when playoffs are taking place.

16. Filip Zadina

Right winger

Filip Zadina

Filip Zadina was born on November 27, 1999 in Pardubice, Czech Republic. He is 6'0" and 192 pounds. Filip played right wing for the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL during the 2018-19 season.

He scored 98 goals and added 102 assists in 65 games this season to lead his team to a first-place finish in their division and qualify for the playoffs where they were eliminated by Rouyn-Noranda Huskies 4-1 in the semifinal round.

In addition to hockey, Filip also plays basketball and soccer at an amateur level respectively. His older brother Jakub Zadina is also a professional ice hockey player who currently plays for HC Kladno of the Czech Extraliga (ELH). 

Filip's father Jaroslav played professionally with HC Slovan Bratislava from 1987 until 1992 before becoming head coach at HC Vsetin from 1995 until 1998 where he led them to promotion to Czech Extraliga (ELH) as well as winning both junior title (U20) and senior title (U18).

Filip has been compared to Pavel Datsyuk due to his ability shoot the puck accurately and pass it successfully through tight spaces; however, he has stated that fellow countryman Tomáš Plekanec is one of his inspirations while playing hockey because "he always seems poised under pressure".

17. Terry Sawchuk

Terry Sawchuk

Terry Sawchuk was a dominant goaltender in the NHL during the 1960s and 1970s. He won three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings, and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1971.

Sawchuk died from cancer at age 40, just two years after being diagnosed with the disease. Terry Sawchuk is one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history. 

He played for Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Los Angeles Kings and New York Rangers over his playing career.

Terry Sawchuk was born on February 8th, 1926 in Hamilton, Ontario Canada. When he was just starting out as a goaltender with the junior Detroit Red Wings team in 1947-48 season he had an impressive record of 37 wins and only 3 losses which earned him a spot on the Canadian National Team that competed at the 1948 Winter Olympics where they finished 4th place overall.

Terry Sawchuk made his debut with the Detroit Red Wings during the 1949-50 season and quickly became one of their top players alongside Gordie Howe and Sid Abel who were also rookies that year. 

In total he played 616 games for Detroit scoring 194 goals against 326 assists for 541 points while winning three Stanley Cups (1952-53, 1954-55 & 1955-56). 

After finishing his playing career with New York Rangers in 1970 Sawchuk moved back to Canada where he started working as a goalie coach for several teams including Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1971), Montreal Canadiens (1972) and St John's Maple Leafs (1973).

He retired from coaching after two seasons due to health reasons but continued living in Burlington Ontario until his death on January 22nd 2016 at the age of 89 years old.

18. Red Kelly

Red Kelly Career

  • Detroit Red Wings
  • Toronto Maple Leafs
  • Playing career: 1947–1967

Red Kelly was a legendary defenceman in the NHL and one of the most respected players ever to play the game. He is best known for his time with the Detroit Red Wings, where he won four Stanley Cups and was named captain in 1960.

After retiring from playing, Kelly served as a coach and executive with several teams over the course of more than 40 years. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1969 and had his number 12 retired by both Detroit and Toronto later that year.

Kelly passed away at 91 after a long illness, leaving behind an incredible legacy as one of hockey's all-time greats. 

A hockey legend, Red Kelly was one of the most successful players in Canadian history. He played for 17 seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs and led them to four Stanley Cup championships.

Born in 1917, Kelly started playing ice hockey at an early age and quickly became a star player. In 1947 he joined the Canada National Hockey Team and helped them win gold at the 1948 Winter Olympics. 

After retiring from professional play in 1967, Kelly served as a Member of Parliament for York West until his death in 2002.

Also Played For: stanley cup

19. Niklas Kronwall

Defenseman

Niklas Kronwall

Niklas Kronwall is a veteran defenseman who has been playing in the NHL for 17 seasons. He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.

Kronwall has played with the Red Wings, Nashville Predators, and Ottawa Senators over his career. In 2012 he won a Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings. Kronwall is an important member of both his team's defense and offense and helps to lead them to victory on game days..

Niklas Kronwall is a left-handed defenceman who played for Djurgårdens IF of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) before being drafted in the 2000 NHL Draft by the Detroit Red Wings. 

He made his debut with Djurgården during the 1999–2000 season and went on to play 237 games over nine seasons with them, helping them win two SHL championships (2002, 2006).

Kronwall then signed as a free agent with Detroit in 2007 and spent eight seasons there, playing 521 regular season games and scoring 28 goals along with 131 assists. In 2019 he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks where he finished out his career after spending one year there. 

He now coaches young players in his home country of Sweden. Kronwall is widely considered to be one of the best defensive forwards in NHL history, having been named an all-star 10 times and winning three Stanley Cups (2008–09, 2013–14, 2017–18).

20. Joseph Veleno

Center

Joe Veleno is a 22-year-old centre who was drafted in the first round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. He played major junior hockey with the Quebec Remparts and helped lead them to a Memorial Cup championship in 2017.

After being drafted, Veleno joined the Ottawa Senators organization where he made his professional debut in 2019. He has been praised for his excellent skating ability and offensive instincts which have led him to be one of Ottawa's top prospects.

Joe Veleno will likely start out as a bottom-six forward but has the potential to become an elite player if he continues to develop at this rate. Joseph Veleno is a left-shooting forward who has spent his entire professional career in Detroit, playing with the Red Wings since 2019.

2. He was drafted 30th overall by Detroit in 2018 and made his NHL debut that season. In 2019–20, he played 58 games and scored 12 goals and 21 assists for 31 points as the Redwings qualified for their first Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance in 29 years.

Veleno finished third on the team in scoring despite averaging just 11 minutes of ice time per game due to injuries throughout much of the season. He has represented France at both youth level (U18) and senior level (Olympic Games).

The 2020 Olympic silver medalist plans to continue playing hockey after retirement from competition.

21. Filip Hronek

Defenseman

Filip Hronek

Filip Hronek was born in 1997 in the Czech Republic and is 25 years old. He played his minor hockey with HC Kladno before being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.

After four seasons with Detroit's AHL affiliate, Grand Rapids, he made his NHL debut on 15 October 2017 against Montreal Canadiens. He scored his first goal for Detroit a few days later against Colorado Avalanche and finished off the season with six goals and eight assists over 21 games played.

In 2018-19, Hronek started off strong scoring three goals in five games including two clutch markers to help secure a playoff berth for the Griffins after finishing third in regular season points behind Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets). 

However, they were eliminated by the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-1 during their first-round series. Despite struggling at times this year due to injuries (mainly upper body), Filip managed to put up good numbers playing 49 games netting 16 goals along with 26 assists making him.

One of GR’s most valuable players both offensively as well as defensively contributing greatly to team success overall despite some unlucky bounces that have cost us dearly at certain moments throughout our run so far (e g Game 7 vs Syracuse Crunch).

With all things considered I think its safe to say that even if he doesn't stay healthy for an entire 82 game campaign there's no doubt he'll be counted on heavily come playoffs time again next year.

22. Michael Rasmussen

Center

Michael Rasmussen is a young centre who was drafted in the first round of the 2018 NHL Draft by the Minnesota Wild. Rasmussen led all WHL players with 112 points during his final season with Portland Winterhawks and was also named to the WHL's First All-Star Team.

He has represented Canada at both under-18 and under-20 levels, winning gold medals at each level. Michael Rasmussen will make his professional debut in 2019-2020 with HC Sibir Novosibirsk of Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Rasmussen was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2017 NHL Draft.

He has played for the Graz99ers and currently plays for the Detroit Red Wings. Rasmussen is a left-shooter and has had success playing in Europe before coming to North America to play in the NHL. His hockey career seems to be on an upswing with several strong performances this season with Detroit Red Wings.

23. Dominik Hasek

Goaltender

Dominik Hasek

Dominik Hasek was a world-renowned goaltender who played for the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators and HC Spartak Moscow in his 16 seasons in the NHL.

He won four Stanley Cup championships with Detroit (1997–98, 2002–03, 2008–09, 2009). His best season came in 1997-98 when he posted a record of 41-17-8 with nine shutouts.

Hasek is also remembered for leading Czechoslovakia to its first Olympic gold medal at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Dominik Hasek was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2014 and received the Lester B.

Pearson Award as Canada's top athlete that year. Dominik Hasek is a legendary Czech player who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2005. He played for the Chicago Black Hawks from 1980 to 2011, winning three Stanley Cups with them during that time.

Hasek also won two Olympic gold medals and one World Championship title during his career. Dominik Hasek remains one of the most dominant goaltenders in NHL history, having led his team to at least 50 wins in each of his ten seasons as a starter (the only goaltender ever to do so).

His style was characterized by extreme patience and outstanding reflexes, which helped him achieve several records including most shutouts (425) and fewest goals allowed per game (2.14). 

In 2006 he became only the second goalie, after Ed Belfour, to win four consecutive Vezina Trophies; he retired shortly afterwards due to injury but returned briefly in 2010–11 season before retiring permanently later that year at age 41.

24. Gustav Lindström

Defenseman

Gustav Lindström started his football career at Östervåla in Sweden. He has already made a name for himself at the young age of just 18, when he was named to the Swedish U19 squad and helped them qualify for the European Championships.

Gustav is now playing for IFK Göteborg and is seen as one of their key defenders due to his speed, strength and aerial ability. In 2018, Gustav signed a new contract with IFK Göteborg that will keep him there until 2020. 

He has also been capped by Sweden at youth level and recently featured in their UEFA Nations League campaign where they reached the semi-finals before being beaten by Portugal.

Gustav's parents are originally from Ghana but moved to Sweden 35 years ago so he can play international football for his country. Outside of football, Gustav likes spending time with friends and family, going skiing or surfing whenever possible.

25. Tomas Holmström

Winger

Tomas Holmström Career

  • National team: Sweden
  • NHL Draft: 257th overall, 1994

Tomas Holmström was born on January 23, 1973 in Piteå, Sweden. He is a 6'0" 183 cm tall forward who played 12 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings before retiring in 2008.

Tomas had a decorated career in the NHL, winning two Stanley Cups (2002 and 2008) as well as several other awards including a Hart Memorial Trophy (2003), Art Ross Award (2007), Lester B.

Pearson Award (2008) and Ted Lindsay Award (2009). After his retirement from hockey, Tomas became an assistant coach for HC Vita Hästen of the Swedish Hockey League where he helped guide them to their first-ever SEL championship victory in 2013/14 season.

In addition to coaching, Tomas also works as a color commentator for TV broadcasts of international hockey matches and has served as an ambassador for various charities throughout his career.

Also Played For: 2010–11 nhl season

26. Marcel Pronovost

Marcel Pronovost

Marcel Pronovost was a legendary goaltender in the NHL and he is now considered one of the best to ever play. He played for 14 seasons with Detroit Red Wings, going 288-226-55 record with 2 shutouts.

He also played for Montreal Canadiens, Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins and St. Louis Blues over his career and is part of their Stanley Cup winning teams in 1965 and 1966 respectively. 

Marcel Pronovost was inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978 after playing his entire career with Montreal Canadiens organization where he won numerous awards including Hart Memorial Trophy as league's most valuable player three times (1957–59, 1961–62, 1963).

After retirement from hockey he became coach at McGill University where led them to NCAA championship game in 1976 which they lost against Wisconsin Badgers 3-1.

27. Lucas Raymond

Left wing

Lucas Raymond Career

  • 2017–18: Frölunda HC
  • 2017–18: Frölunda HC
  • 2018–19: Frölunda HC
  • 2018: Sweden
  • 2018: Sweden
  • 2019: Sweden
  • 2020: Sweden
  • 2021: Sweden

Lucas Raymond is a young player with lots of potential who plays for the Detroit Red Wings in 2021. He was born in Sweden, but moved to the United States when he was just two years old.

Lucas has been playing hockey since he was five years old and quickly became one of the best players in his country. In 2019, Lucas led all Swedish teenagers with 44 points in 36 games played for Modo Hockey junior team (age 16-17).

He joined the Detroit Redwings organization as a prospect at the end of 2018-19 season and made his pro debut during their 2020 Calder Cup playoffs series against Grand Rapids Griffins - scoring 2 goals and 3 assists over 4 games played including 1 game winner.

His size (5'11", 170 lbs) and skill set make him an exciting player to watch on ice; expect big things from Lucas Raymond going forward.

Also Played For: nhl 22 best young players, nhl under 25

28. Sid Abel

Sid Abel

Sid Abel was a Hockey Hall of Fame inductee who helped lead the Detroit Red Wings to four Stanley Cup championships. Abel played his entire career with the Red Wings and is considered one of their all-time greats.

He won back-to-back scoring titles in 1944 and 1945, and led the team to another championship in 1950. After retiring from hockey, Sid became a successful businessman and owner of several businesses including a car dealership.

He died at age 81 after a long battle with cancer. In 1998, Sid was named one of Canada's 100 Greatest Canadians for his contributions to hockey as both an athlete and businessperson. 

The Hockey Hall of Fame has dedicated an exhibit in Abel's honour at its museum in Toronto, Ontario which features memorabilia from his playing days as well as photos documenting his life post-hockey.

29. Moritz Seider

Defenseman

Moritz Seider Career

  • 2016–17: Jungadler Mannheim
  • 2017–18: Jungadler Mannheim
  • 2017–18: Adler Mannheim
  • 2018–19: Adler Mannheim
  • 2019–20: Grand Rapids Griffins
  • 2020–21: Rögle BK
  • 2021–22: Detroit Red Wings

Moritz Seider is a young defender who currently plays for Bundesliga side Adler Mannheim. 

He was born in Zell, Germany in 2001 and started playing football at an early age with local club SC Rheindorf Altach before moving on to bigger clubs such as TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and VfB Stuttgart.

He made his debut for Hoffenheim II during the 2016–17 season and quickly established himself as one of the best defenders in German football.

 During the 2018–19 season, he helped Hoffenheim win their first ever DFB-Pokal title and earn promotion to the Bundesliga. 

In 2019, Seider signed a contract with Bundesliga side Adler Mannheim where he will continue to play until 2024.

Moritz Seider is a German-born, Right shooting defenseman who played for the Detroit Red Wings of the NHL from 2018 to present.

He was drafted by the Red Wings in the 6th round of the 2019 NHL Draft. Moritz Seider has spent most of his playing career with Adler Mannheim, Rögle BK and now National Team Germany where he has won a Gold Medal at both World Championships and Olympic Games respectively. 

Moritz Seider is known as an effective defensive player who can play physical when needed but also contribute offensively.

30. Bob Probert

Bob Probert

Bob Probert was a professional ice hockey player who played for the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs. He is best known for his fighting ability, which made him one of the most feared players in the NHL.

Injuries forced Probert to retire in 2006 after 15 seasons in the league. He later became an assistant coach with the 2008 Stanley Cup-winning Chicago Blackhawks. On July 5th 2010, Bob Probert died from a heart attack at age 45 after battling leukemia since 2004.

Bob Probert was a left wing for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, playing from 1985-2002. He is considered one of the best players in NHL history, with over 1,000 points in his career. His number 9 was retired by both teams he played for. 

Bob Probert had a personal life filled with controversy; he was suspended multiple times due to off-the-ice issues. In 2002, at age 41, he died after suffering an accidental head injury while snowboarding.

31. Darren Helm

Center

Darren Helm

Helm is a five-foot-eleven inch, 192 pound left winger who has played for the Detroit Red Wings since 2008. He was drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the third round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

Helm made his professional debut with their American Hockey League affiliate, Binghamton Senators in 2002–03 and then spent two seasons with them before being traded to Detroit on February 26th, 2006.

In 2007–08 he had 43 points (22 goals and 21 assists) in 63 games as a rookie with Detroit and helped lead them to their first Stanley Cup championship that season after defeating Tampa Bay Lightning four games to one in the Finals; also scoring an important goal in game six of that series which clinched victory for Detroit (which would be voted as ESPN's Greatest Sporting Event Ever).

In 2009–10 Helm set career highs both offensively (41 points – 16 goals and 27 assists) and defensively (2139 minutes played; fourth most amongst all players). 

After another impressive campaign where he scored 31 goals while adding 25 helpers for 56 points total, Helm signed a six year contract extension worth $25 million dollars with Detroit on March 1st, 2013.

32. Tyler Bertuzzi

Left wing

Tyler Bertuzzi

Tyler Bertuzzi is a 27-year-old forward who plays for the Detroit Red Wings. He was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the second round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, and has since played for both teams.

Bertuzzi had a breakout season in 2017 with the Grand Rapids Griffins, scoring 36 goals and adding 54 assists for 108 points in 73 games. This performance earned him nomination as one of the AHL's top players, as well as a spot on Team Canada at the World Championships.

Bertuzzi is known for his physical play and strong net presence; he also possesses excellent hand-eye coordination and puck possession skills which have helped him score many important goals throughout his career. Tyler Bertuzzi is a left wing for the Detroit Red Wings and Canada.

He was drafted in 2013 with 58th overall pick and has since played for the team in both the NHL and AHL. Tyler started his career with HC Davos of Switzerland's National League A where he tallied 23 points (10 goals, 13 assists) in 49 games. 

In 2014–15, Bertuzzi made his North American debut with the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL after a impressive showing at Hockey Canada's summer evaluation camp.

His first season in North America saw him score 18 goals and 38 points in 73 games before making his NHL debut on December 10 against Edmonton Oilers scoring 1 goal on 3 shots along with an assist during 5 minutes of action ice time as a substitute replacing Pavel Datsyuk who was serving an IR suspension.

After appearing sporadically throughout 2015–16 due to injuries, Bertuzzi signed a one-year contract extension with Detroit on July 25th, 2016 which would keep him through at least 2018-19 seasons barring any unforeseen circumstances or breakout performances elsewhere.

33. Givani Smith

Right winger

Givani Smith Career

  • 2013–14: Mississauga Senators
  • 2014–15: Barrie Colts
  • 2014–15: Guelph Storm
  • 2015–16: Guelph Storm
  • 2016–17: Guelph Storm
  • 2016–17: Grand Rapids Griffins
  • 2017–18: Guelph Storm
  • 2017–18: Kitchener Rangers
  • 2018–19: Grand Rapids Griffins
  • 2019–20: Grand Rapids Griffins
  • 2019–20: Detroit Red Wings
  • 2020–21: Detroit Red Wings
  • 2020–21: Grand Rapids Griffins

Givani Smith was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on February 27th 1998. At just 24 years old, Smith is already an experienced professional hockey player having played for the Maple Leafs and Senators organizations.

He has good speed and agility which make him very difficult to defend against off the rush. Known for his strong offensive play, Smith has scored 22 goals and added 41 assists in 134 career games thus far. 

His contract with Ottawa will expire at the end of this season; however he is expected to be re-signed by another team before then due to his high level of play Givani Smith is a left winger for the Detroit Red Wings.

He was drafted in 2016, and has since played for Florida Panthers and Detroit Red Wings. Smith is known for his speed and agility on the ice. Despite being relatively new to professional hockey, he has already established himself as a key player on several teams. 

His skill set makes him an excellent option both offensively and defensively; he can score goals or create chances for others playing alongside him on the ice. With continued development, Givani Smith could become one of the most successful players in NHL history.

Also Played For: guelph storm

34. Reed Larson

Reed Larson

Reed Larson started his NHL career with the Detroit Red Wings. He would also play for the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers before retiring in 1999. Reed Larson was a dominant defenseman during his time in the NHL, winning 4 Stanley Cups (with Detroit) and 2 Olympic Gold Medals (with Team USA).

Reed Larson is currently an assistant coach with the Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League (NHL). Reed Larson was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL Draft in 1976. 

He played his entire career with the New York Islanders, retiring after 1990. Reed is a two-time Stanley Cup champion (1980 and 1982) with the Islanders, as well as a three-time Vezina Trophy nominee (1981–1983).

Reed also won a gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo with Team USA. After retirement from playing hockey, Reed served as an assistant coach for various teams including the New York Rangers and Minnesota North Stars before becoming head coach of HC Alleghe in Switzerland in 2003. 

In 2007, he became head coach of HC Milano of Italy where he remained until 2011 when he returned to Switzerland to become head coach of National team United States.

35. Kirk Maltby

Kirk Maltby

Maltby played in the NHL for 20 seasons, all with the Detroit Red Wings. He was a two-time Stanley Cup champion and an All-Star player. His most successful season was 2002–03 when he scored 61 goals and 132 points.

Maltby announced his retirement from professional hockey in 2013 after playing his last game for the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL. Since retiring, Maltby has worked as a color commentator on Red Wings games on TV channel Fox Sports Detroit and been involved with numerous charity events throughout Michigan.

Kirk is married to actress Arianne Zucker and they have three children together: daughters Willow (born 2006) and Tallulah (born 2009), son Zeke (born 2012). Kirk Maltby was a consistent scorer for the Edmonton Oilers from 1992-2010. 

He tallied over 1,000 points in his NHL career and helped lead the team to two Stanley Cup Finals appearances. Kirk Maltby also played for Detroit Red Wings and Canada's National Team where he won a gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics. 

After retiring as an active player, Kirk Maltby served as an assistant coach with the Vancouver Canucks before moving on to become head coach of HC Sochi of Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

36. Norm Ullman

Norm Ullman

Norm Ullman was a skilled goaltender in the NHL for over 20 years, and is now considered one of the all-time greats. He won three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings in the 1960s, as well as two Vezina Trophies.

After his playing career ended, he became an important member of Hockey Hall of Fame induction committees. Norm also coached teams at various levels for many years after retiring from playing hockey, including a stint as head coach of Team Canada at the World Championships in 1976.

In 2012, Norm was awarded The Order Of Canada – a prestigious honour given to Canadians who have made significant contributions to their country or world community. Norm Ullman played centre for the Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers over a playing career spanning 1955-1977.

Norm was known as one of the best defensive forwards in NHL history and is still held in high regard by many hockey fans today. He led all players with 438 penalty minutes during his playing career which speaks to his toughness on the ice. His left shot was a valuable asset as he scored 366 goals and added 257 assists during his 14 seasons in the NHL.

Norm Ullman will be remembered fondly by many for being an integral part of some very successful teams throughout his lengthy career.

37. Igor Larionov

Igor Larionov

Igor Larionov was a prolific scorer in both the Soviet and Canadian leagues. He won an Olympic Gold Medal with Russia in 1988, as well as five World Championships titles with CSKA Moscow between 1984 and 1991.

He joined the Vancouver Canucks in 1992, where he helped the team to their first Stanley Cup championship that year. Larionov then moved to Italy with CSKA Moscow's rivals Brunflo IK before joining San Jose Sharksto Detroit Red Wingsin 1996.

In 2002, he returned to his home country of Russia to play for Lugano HC before ending his playing career two seasons later with Florida Panthers. Finally, Larionov retired from hockey after one last season (2004–05) in Germany's Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL).

After retirement, Larionov has worked as a commentator on various Russian television networks and served as assistant coach of Vityaz Podolsk during the 2010–11 Kontinental Hockey League season.

38. Johan Franzén

Right winger

Johan Franzén

Johan Franzen is a Swedish professional ice hockey player. He played for the Detroit Red Wings in the NHL from 2002 to 2013, and was captain of their team from 2009 to 2013.

Franzén has also played for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets and Buffalo Sabres in his career. In 2018 he signed with HC Kunskapsrörelsen Karlstad in Sweden's second-tier league Elitserien after previously playing two seasons with AIK Häcken in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).

Franzén won gold medals as part of Sweden's national men's ice hockey team at both the 2006 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Olympics, as well as World Championships on three occasions - 2004, 2007 and 2011 Johan Franzén was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 97th overall pick in 2004. 

He played for Linköping HC from 1999 to 2016, tallying 309 points (145 goals and 182 assists) along the way.

Franzén represented Sweden at both World Junior Championships (2003 and 2007), as well as at two Olympic games (2010 and 2014). On November 11, 2016, he announced his retirement from professional hockey after playing his last game with Linköping HC against HV71 of Stockholm.

39. Valtteri Filppula

Center

Valtteri Filppula

Filppula is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Detroit Red Wings. He has also won a World Championship, and completed four seasons in Finland's top league, playing for HC Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) club Jokerit.

In 2016-17 he played 43 games for the Red Wings scoring nine goals and adding eleven assists for 20 points. Filppula was drafted by Detroit in 2001 after starring at HIFK of the Finnish Elite League (Liiga). 

After spending his first three NHL seasons developing in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he made his debut with Detroit during the 2005-06 season appearing in 34 games and recording six goals and ten assists for 16 points.

Before being traded to Florida on 1 February 2007 as part of a seven-player trade that saw Johan Franzen move from Detriot to Sunrise Beach hockey club FLA.

Filppula continued his development under then-head coach Mike Babcock winning a Calder Trophy as rookie of the year while playing alongside. Henrik Zetterberg who was voted third behind only Patrick Roy and Mario Lemieux when voting was conducted by members.

The Professional Hockey Writers Association at their annual awards dinner held at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre Nov 15th 2008 On 5 July 2009 it was announced by GM Ken Holland that Filppula had signed an 8-year $32 million contract extension with Detroit thru 2021-22.

Which tied him up until age 36 making him one of longest serving players on team along side Pavel Datsyuk & Nicklas Lidstrom At 38 years old Filppula scored two goals including game-winner.

Tampa Bay Lightning assisted by Gustav Nyquist giving Detroit its sixth straight playoff berth leading into their seventh title run starting next spring Valtteri Filppula.

Also Played For: jokerit

40. Jakub Vrána

Left wing

Jakub Vrána

Jakub Vrána was born on February 28, 1996 in Prague, Czech Republic. He is a left wing and shoots left. Jakub Vrána played for HC České Budějovice of the Czech Extraliga from 2013-2018 before joining the Washington Capitals in 2019 as a free agent.

In 48 games with the Capitals, he has scored six goals and added 11 assists for 17 points overall. Jakub Vrána also had five goals and four assists in 10 playoff games to help. 

Washington make it to their first Stanley Cup Final since 1997 where they lost to the Las Vegas Golden Knights 4-1 Jakub Vrána was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 13th round of the 2014 NHL Draft.

Jakub played for Linköping HC of Sweden's Hockey League from 2013 to 2015, posting totals of 85 points (27 goals, 52 assists) in 152 games. 

In 2016–17, Jakub joined Detroit Red Wings' AHL affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins and posted 54 points (16 goals, 40 assists) in 73 games before being traded to Washington on February 26th, 2017. 

Jakub has represented his country at both under-18 and under-20 levels and made his senior debut during the 2018 World Championships where he scored one goal in eight appearances as Czech Republic reached the semifinals.

Jakub is currently playing with Washington Capitals major league team after being signed as a free agent on July 1st, 2019.

41. Elmer Söderblom

Left wing

Elmer Söderblom is a left wing player who was born in 2001 and currently plays for Gothenburg of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). He has played for Sweden at various youth levels, but made his senior debut in 2018.

At 6'8", he is one of the tallest players in the SHL and often uses his size to intimidate opposing defencemen. Elmer's skills have drawn comparisons with fellow Swede Erik Karlsson, and he is considered to be one of Sweden's most promising young hockey players.

In 2019, Elmer signed a three-year contract extension with Gothenburg which will keep him at the club until 2024 Elmer Söderblom was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2019 NHL Draft. He has played for Frölunda HC and currently plays for the Detroit Red Wings.

Elmer Söderblom is a left-shooting defenseman who has spent his entire playing career with the Detroit Red Wings so far. Elmer Söderblom was born on October 15, 1999, in Helsingborg, Sweden.

42. Mickey Redmond

Mickey Redmond

Mickey Redmond was a Canadian professional wrestler who is best known for his time in World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) and the American Wrestling Association (AWA).

Redmond got his start in the wrestling business by working as an enhancement talent for WWWF, where he teamed with Adrian Adonis to win the 1974 Tag Team Championship. After leaving WWWF, Redmond spent two years with Mid-Eastern Wrestling Federation before joining WCCW in 1979.

In WCCW, Redmond became one of the most popular wrestlers on television, feuding extensively with stars such as Ric Flair and Harley Race. 

Following WrestleMania III in 1985, which saw both Flair and Race leave WCW for NWA/Worldwide Studios, Redmond left the company to join AWA where he formed a successful tag team partnership with John Studd.

The pair held the AWA World Tag Team Championships twice between 1986 and 1988. Later in life, Mickey retired from professional wrestling but continued to make occasional appearances at live events until his death on January 19th 2018 at age 75 after a long battle with cancer.

43. John Ogrodnick

John Ogrodnick

John Ogrodnick was born on June 20, 1959 in Ottawa, Ontario. He is a left wing and played for the NHL's New Jersey Devils from 1982 to 1988. Ogrodnick had an impressive career with the Devils scoring 209 goals and 579 assists for 821 points in 981 games.

After his playing retirement, he became a coach with the team's minor league affiliate Albany River Rats before being hired as head coach of Northeastern University in 1998 where he remained until 2007 when he was fired after posting a record of 37-47-10 (69%).

In 2009, John Ogrodnick was named assistant general manager of the Chicago Blackhawks but resigned four years later after failing to secure a playoff berth despite making some key moves during that time including signing goaltender Corey Crawford and forward Patrick Kane.

Since leaving hockey administration, John has been working as an analyst on TSN 1050 Radio covering both Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins games while also doing occasional work for Sportsnet 360 Hockey Night in Canada broadcasts where he provides analysis alongside Ron MacLean or Elliotte Friedman depending on which night it is airing.

On July 28th 2018 at 6pm EST John will be hosting his own show called "Coaching Confidential" on Sportsnet 590 The FAN radio network discussing various aspects of coaching which you can find out more about here: https://www1/news/canada/ottawa/article25303998/.

44. Jonatan Berggren

Forward

Career

  • NHL Draft: 33rd overall, 2018, Detroit Red Wings
  • Playing career: 2018–present

At 22 years old, Jonatan Berggren is a young and talented player who has yet to reach his full potential. He first emerged on the Swedish hockey scene in 2016-17, when he scored 16 goals and added 24 assists for 40 points in 51 games with AIK of the SHL.

The following season, Berggren continued to impress as he put up 33 points (12 goals, 21 assists) in 54 games with AIK again – good enough for fifth place among league leaders in scoring. 

In June 2019, it was announced that Berggren had signed a two-year contract extension with AIK worth an estimated $1 million USD.

At 5'11" and 180 pounds, Jonatan is not your average player; however, his strong skating ability allows him to keep up with most players on the ice no matter how fast they are moving forward or backward. Berggren was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2018. 

He has spent his entire playing career with Skellefteå AIK of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).

In total, Berggren has played 266 games in the SHL and registered 63 points (22 goals, 41 assists). On January 7th, 2019, he made his National Hockey League debut for the Detroit Red Wings against the Ottawa Senators. 

He scored his first NHL goal on February 3rd against Andersson & Nystrom of Arizona Coyotes in a 4-1 victory. As of March 21st, 2019, Berggren had recorded 10 points (three goals and seven assists) over 20 games for Detroit; making him one of their most effective players this season so far.

45. Alex Nedeljkovic

Goaltender

Alex Nedeljkovic Career

  • NHL team (P): Detroit Red Wings
  • Cur. team: Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL)
  • Former teams: Carolina Hurricanes
  • National team: United States
  • NHL Draft: 37th overall, 2014
  • Carolina Hurricanes

Alex Nedeljkovic is a 27-year old American professional ice hockey player. He currently plays for the Charlotte Checkers of the AHL. Alex Nedeljkovic played college hockey at Bowling Green State University before turning pro in 2016 with the Charlotte Checkers of the AHL.

In his rookie season, he led all rookies in scoring with 36 points and was named to the AHL Second All-Star Team. Alex Nedeljkovic has represented both Canada and Slovakia at the international level but is most well known for his time. 

Team USA where he won gold at both the 2017 IIHF World Championship and 2018 Winter Olympics, becoming only the second U.S.-born player (after Patrick Kane) ever to win an Olympic gold medal.

Alex nedeljkovic's father came from Croatia while his mother is Serbian; this gives him dual citizenship which he has used to represent both countries internationally on several occasions.

Also Played For: 2020–21 nhl season

46. Larry Murphy

Larry Murphy Career

  • 1978–79: Peterborough Petes
  • 1978–79: Peterborough Petes
  • 1979–80: Peterborough Petes
  • 1979–80: Peterborough Petes
  • 1980–81: Los Angeles Kings
  • 1981–82: Los Angeles Kings
  • 1982–83: Los Angeles Kings
  • 1983–84: Los Angeles Kings

Murphy was a Norris Trophy winner as the best defenceman in the NHL in 1988. 

He played for the Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks before retiring after the 2002-03 season.

Murphy has been inducted into both the Hockey Hall of Fame and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. 

In 2010 he became an assistant coach with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs team Larry Murphy was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in 1980 and played for them until 2001.

He won a Stanley Cup with the Kings in 1993 and was also an All-Star several times throughout his career. 

After leaving the NHL, Murphy went on to play for teams in Europe including spells with the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings.

In 2002 he retired from professional hockey after playing 18 seasons across all levels of competition. 

Larry Murphy is now a broadcaster for Hockey Night in Canada where he covers both Canadian provincial championships as well as international matches featuring Team Canada.

Also Played For: pittsburgh penguins, washington capitals

47. Adam Erne

Left wing

Adam Erne

Adam Erne was born in New Haven, Connecticut and is a 27-year-old American hockey player. He played his first professional season with the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League (AHL) in 2017.

Adam Erne is known for his strong physical play and has been compared to Tampa Bay Lightning forward Steven Stamkos due to their similar size and skill set. In addition to playing ice hockey, Adam Erne also competes in track & field events such as the 110m hurdles and shot putt.

As of February 2019, Adam Erne has registered four goals and 10 points through 26 games with the Crunch this season - including two goals on March 1st against Hershey that helped secure Syracuse's playoff spot for the second year running. 

The Crunch are currently fighting for a place in the AHL Eastern Conference Finals which they will take on either Providence or Worcester starting Saturday night 8pm EST/7pm CST over at Ricoh Coliseum.

48. Joe Kocur

Joe Kocur was born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Canada on December 21st, 1964. Joe is known for his role as a right wing player with the Buffalo Sabres and Winnipeg Jets of the NHL.

During his tenure with Buffalo and Winnipeg he amassed over 800 points in over 1000 games played. He has also competed in international play with Team Canada at several tournaments including the World Championships and the Olympics where he won a silver medal in 1994.

In 2006 Joe retired from professional hockey after playing 16 seasons total which included stints with both Buffalo and Winnipeg as well as representing Canada at multiple tournaments throughout that time span. 

Currently Joe resides back home in Kelvington, Saskatchewan where he enjoys spending time with his family and coaching youth hockey programs.

49. Oskar Sundqvist

Center

Oskar Sundqvist Career

  • 2014–15: Skellefteå AIK
  • 2014–15: Wilkes–Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2015–16: Wilkes–Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2015–16: Pittsburgh Penguins
  • 2016–17: Wilkes–Barre/Scranton Penguins
  • 2016–17: Pittsburgh Penguins
  • 2017–18: St. Louis Blues
  • 2017–18: San Antonio Rampage

Sundqvist was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2nd round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. He made his professional debut with SKA Saint Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in 2013-14, scoring 10 goals and 29 points in 50 games.

Sundqvist then joined the Penguins for their playoff run that year, playing 11 games and recording one point. In 2014-15 he scored 14 goals and 36 points in 57 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League (AHL). 

Sundqvist made his NHL debut with Pittsburgh during the 2015–16 season, appearing in 41 games before being traded to Toronto on 31 March 2016 as part of a three player deal that also involved Jake Gardiner .

Sundqvist finished second on Toronto in voting for Most Valuable Player following an injury plagued season where he scored 18 goals and 44 points en route to a first career All Star appearance at center ice.

Also Played For: st louis blues trade

50. Jimmy Howard

Goaltender

Jimmy Howard Career

  • National team: United States
  • NHL Draft: 64th overall, 2003
  • Detroit Red Wings

Jimmy Howard is an American goaltender who has played for the Detroit Red Wings since 2006. He was originally drafted by the Nashville Predators in 2001.

Howard has won two Stanley Cups with Detroit, including in 2013-14 when he led all goaltenders with 41 wins and a 2.24 GAA. 

Injuries have been a problem for Howard over the past few seasons, limiting him to just 63 appearances between 2014 and 2018 combined due to various injuries sustained in each of those years (ankle, knee).

Despite this impediment, Howard remains one of the most successful goalies in NHL history, having posted back-to-back 50+ win seasons and leading his team to at least one playoff appearance every year since 2006 except for 2012 when he missed almost all of the season due to injury as well. 

After spending time with Grand Rapids Griffins during training camp this season, it seems likely that if healthy Howard will retire after playing his tenth full NHL season next year.

51. Syd Howe

Syd Howe

Syd Howe was a hockey legend who was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1965. He played for several teams throughout his career, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings.

He is often considered one of the best defensemen to ever play the game, and he helped lead both Toronto and Detroit to Stanley Cup championships. Syd Howe retired from playing professional hockey in 1963, but continued to participate in amateur leagues until his death four years later at age 64.

Syd Howe was a left wing for the Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Quakers, Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings over his playing career. He was born in Winnipeg on October 12th, 1912 and died on May 16th, 1990. 

Syd played 563 games in the NHL scoring 114 goals and 187 assists for 291 points. In 1936-37 he led all scorers with 31 goals while being named to the First All-Star Team at Left Wing position.

Syd also won three Stanley Cups as captain of the Detroit Red Wings (1948–1950), St Louis Eagles (1951–1952)and Ottawa Senators (1963).

Final Words

. . The Detroit Red Wings are one of the most iconic hockey franchises in the world, and they have had some of the best players in history. Some of their all-time greats include Steve Yzerman, Gordie Howe, Sergei Fedorov, Henrik Zetterberg and Nicklas Lidstrom.

These players were instrumental in helping the team win numerous championships over the years.

Photo of author

Brandon McNally

I have been playing hockey my whole life. I am currently a professional hockey player with the Calgary Flames. I am also a part time coach at the University of Calgary and the head coach of the Calgary Northstars Minor Hockey Association. I have always wanted to be an NHL player and I am very excited to be one! My hobbies are playing hockey, coaching, and spending time with my family. LinkedIn

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