It will likely be strange for Detroit Red Wings fans to see someone else wearing the captain's "C" this upcoming season, but Steve Yzerman's reported replacement will be comforting.
Lidstrom
According to a report in the Detroit Free Press, veteran defenseman and fan favorite Nicklas Lidstrom will be the next captain of the Red Wings. A source within the organization told the newspaper that the team will wait on making an official announcement, but no timetable was given.
Lidstrom, 36, has been with the team since the 1991-92 season and has played his entire NHL career in Detroit. After winning his fourth Norris Trophy in June, Lidstrom signed a new two-year deal with the club. Lidstrom served as alternate captain over the past few seasons.
Yzerman, who had been the Red Wings' captain since the 1986-87 season, announced his retirement this offseason.
Lidstrom led all NHL defensemen last season with a career-high 80 points. Only Hall of Famers Bobby Orr (eight), Doug Harvey (seven) and Ray Bourque (five) have won the Norris more times than the 36-year-old Swede.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.