The Free Press’s Helene St. James broaches a somewhat sensitive subject this afternoon, discussing whether the Red Wings should retire Sergei Fedorov’s #91. The answer is obviously, “Yes!”
He was an electrifying presence, an incredibly strong skater who dominated all over the ice and one of the most skilled Red Wings of all time. Off the ice, however, his Detroit career was tarnished by a contract holdout and his decision to play for the Anaheim Ducks for less money in Southern California.
The bitterness between the organization and Fedorov — and fans and Fedorov — appeared to subside in 2015 when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. And as more time passes, it becomes more likely that his No. 91 will become the eighth number retired by the Red Wings.
“Sergei had a fabulous career in a Red Wings uniform,” general manager Ken Holland told the Free Press. “He had a tremendous impact on this franchise. I would assume as we continue to go forward there will be ongoing conversations about his impact on this franchise.”
Attempts to reach Red Wings owner Christopher Ilitch were unsuccessful.
Scotty Bowman, who coached Fedorov from 1993 to 2002, winning three Stanley Cups, did not hesitate with his answer when asked if Fedorov’s number should be retired by the Wings.
“Sure,” Bowman said. “He’s done it all. Sergei was a spectacular player. He was so good offensively and defensively. Sometimes it takes a little while. Detroit doesn’t retire as many, which makes it more valuable.”
Yes, it is long over due. No Fedorov, no Cups.
Scotty would know!
I love how casually unequivocating his answer was, too.
One of those rare people who is fascinating to listen to on almost any topic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2EwoiRuM3U
Yup, it’s much overdue and about damn time. Imagine that era without Sergei..we would be the Leafs right now. It should have been retired while The Joe was still in commission.(Now the fact that it will draw a crowd to LSA might be the consideration that finally makes it happen, which is sad.) Better late than never though.
It’s pretty obvious how I feel about retiring Sergei Fedorov’s number 91. He was instrumental in those Cup wins in ’97 and ’98. He was one of the most dynamic and versatile players to ever wear the Winged Wheel. Sure he broke our hearts when he chose to leave, but I believe him when he says he will always be a Red Wing. I believe it is time to retire number 91.
Federov crossed Mr I twice, and I don’t think Chris is willing to forgive that yet. For what they did to get him out of Russia, this is understandably personal. Just like it took Abel a long time to reach the rafters, I don’t think Federov will be there for several more years.
I agree that Sergei should have his 91 retired…eventually.
I would prefer to see Datsyuk’s # retired together w/ Zetterberg’s before Fedorov.
Yes. I will always be bitter about how he held the wings hostage on the Hurricanes offer sheet and how he eventually left a few years later.
I’m willing to let it go, but I feel Pavel and Hank deserve their ceremonies first…