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Nicklas Lidstrom joins 800 assist club

Nicklas Lidstrom

Detroit Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom, of Sweden, acknowledges the crowd after scoring his 1,000th career point against the Los Angeles Kings in the third period in an NHL hockey game in Detroit, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009. Detroit won 5-2. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

AP

Already considered among the greatest defensemen in NHL history, Nicklas Lidstrom reached another milestone with his 800th career assist in the Detroit’s win over the Nashville Predators Friday night. (Video)

“The six-time Norris Trophy winner is the 28th NHL player to reach the assist milestone, and the fourth in Red Wings’ history, joining Steve Yzerman (1,063), Gordie Howe (1,049) and Alex Delvecchio (825).”



Lidstrom’s list of accolades is downright staggering. He’s won a Conn Smythe, four Stanley Cups, a gold medal, six Norris Trophies and is a nine time selection to the NHL First All-Star team. Oh yeah, he’s also the first European defenseman to reach 1,000 points and the first European captain to hoist the Stanley Cup.

It is a true joy to watch Lidstrom’s cerebral, seemingly flawless style of play (unless he’s on the point during a powerplay against your favorite team ... then it is terrifying). The Swedish defenseman is so special that The Sporting News named him the player of the last decade.

Being that he’s about to turn 40 and his contract is set to expire, it’s natural to consider his legacy. Is he the best D not named Bobby Orr? Maybe he’s on the “second tier” with greats like Ray Bourque? It’s hard to say, so for now, I’ll just enjoy watching him play.

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