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Video: Nicklas Lidstrom discusses his future

Nicklas Lidstrom

In this Jan. 22, 2011, photo, Detroit Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom works with the puck during an NHL hockey game in Detroit. Lidstrom is walking a fine line, trying to play at a high level for the Red Wings as long as he can without figuring out too late he played one too many seasons. It looks like he made the right decision to play his 19th NHL season. Lidstrom has 44 points in 50 games--not too shabby for a 40-year-old defenseman--to rank second in scoring for the Central Divison-leading Red Wings. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

AP

If you asked me to compile a list of active players any hockey should see in person, most of those guys would be physical forces who bring amazing skill or reckless abandon to the ice. Yet Nicklas Lidstrom stands out for his almost inhuman on-ice intellect.

(You would think that intelligence is something far too subtle to translate into a live whockey experience, but wait until you notice that the guy is just about perfect. Seriously, I can’t even imagine Lidstrom making a bad restaurant menu choice at this point.)

It’s nearly impossible to discuss Lidstrom’s great 2010-11 season without mentioning that he is an elite defenseman at the age of 40. This video discusses the possibility of retirement - his one year deal will expire after this season - yet if any player can push Chris Chelios for longevity, it might be Lidstrom. His decision making ability creates plenty of space to make up for slowing legs and reflexes, so don’t be surprised if “The Perfect Human” sticks around longer.

Count me among the many who won’t complain if he does.
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