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.”