Red Wings Hire Lidstrom as VP of Hockey Operations

The gang is getting back together! 

The Detroit Red Wings unveiled the return of a franchise icon on Tuesday morning, announcing that the organization has hired Hall of Fame defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom to serve as VP of hockey operations. 

After compiling one of the most prolific playing careers in NHL history, Lidstrom will now step into the front office of the only organization he's ever known, joining former teammate Steve Yzerman as the pair of former stars attempt to guide the next generation of Red Wings hockey to reach the heights that they did all those years ago. 

When it comes to on-ice performance, Lidstrom's accolades speak for themselves. 

The defender played 20 seasons in the NHL from 1991-2011, walking away from the game with four Stanley Cups, seven Norris Trophies, 12 All-Star selections, the 2001-02 Conn Smythe Award, and a place on the 199-92 All-Rookie Team. 

There is an argument to be made that Lidstrom is, in fact, the best defenseman in NHL history, as his mix of elite defensive play and stellar offensive production has rarely, if ever, been replicated by another player – both past and present. 

But on-ice achievements are one thing. The duties of a front office executive require a completely different skill set. And with the Red Wings inching toward the end of a long rebuild, Lidstrom joins the fray at a very delicate time.