The career of bruising Detroit Red Wings defenseman Vladimir Konstantinov was tragically cut short less than a week after the 1997 Stanley Cup victory because of a limousine accident that very nearly claimed his life. 

Thankfully, he's still with us, and we celebrate his birthday today: 

Konstantinov remains a beloved figure in the Red Wings community, and while it isn't officially retired and taken out of circulation, no Red Wings player has worn jersey No. 16 since he did.