OT Discussion: 3 Detroit Red Wings we’d invite to Thanksgiving Dinner
Tyler Kotila
My selection for the ideal trio of guests at this Thanksgiving gathering would include Darren McCarty, whose spirited and lively nature could undoubtedly bring an infectious energy to the event, ensuring an entertaining and vibrant atmosphere.
Additionally, Jonathan Ericsson‘s involvement with a local food brand in Metro Detroit makes his presence intriguing, as I envision he could contribute a delightful and flavorsome side dish, elevating the culinary experience of the occasion.
Lastly, Marian Hossa holds a special place in my heart as my favorite NHL player from childhood, and his reputation as a respected individual within the league adds a sentimental and meaningful touch to this envisioned gathering. These choices offer a diverse mix of personalities and contributions that promise a memorable and enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration.
Kaitlyn Glaza
Detroit Red Wings players of past, present, and future are cordially invited to a turkey feast!
My player of the past would be Igor Larionov. His wealth of stories, wisdom, and insights not just about hockey but life itself would make for an invaluable addition to my Thanksgiving table. Learning from someone as remarkable as Larionov would be an incredible opportunity at any point in my life.
Moving to the Present, Olli Määttä stands out for his career, background, and overall vibe, earning him a spot at my Thanksgiving feast. I’ve always been intrigued by Finland, and having the chance to learn more about the country from a Finn like Määttä is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. His humor adds an extra appeal, too.
Looking towards the Future, Jonatan Berggren is my pick. His ability to captivate and entertain is unparalleled. From his lively Cribs tour to his antics of throwing t-shirts over the glass and dancing around the arena, his vibrant personality shines! He’s a ham, even on Turkey Day!
Ciara Durant
As a self-proclaimed “admirably impartial Red Wings scribe,” it is difficult for me to narrow down three Detroit Red Wings players I would invite to enjoy my company for Thanksgiving. All joking aside, it wasn’t until recently that I had a vested interest in the Detroit Red Wings.
While I have quite a bit of knowledge of the team’s past, present, and future players, my answers may seem a bit trivial, simple, or even boring to some. Nevertheless, while I did not come into my hockey fandom as a Detroit Red Wings fan, these three players all had a hand in inspiring my love for the game and reigniting that flame years later.
The first person on my list would undoubtedly be the man with a plan, Steve Yzerman. He is not just a hockey legend but someone who sparked my profound interest in the sport of hockey at an early age. His leadership, skill, and dedication to the game have always been an inspiration for me and have oftentimes given me the motivation I needed to tackle difficult challenges in my own life.
There are far too many legendary moments I would love to pick his brain about. I would sit mesmerized, reliving those incredible moments as stories told straight from the man who experienced them firsthand. His journey from a young, talented player to a revered leader holds a treasure trove of anecdotes and experiences.
Next, I’d extend an invitation to Nicklas Lidstrom, a true maestro on the ice. Growing up, Nicklas Lidstrom was the idol of one of my friends. And, as a former “goaltender” (and by goaltender, I mean this same friend and his brother strapped roller skates to my feet, forced me into a net, and shot wristers at me until I cried), Lidstrom’s unparalleled experiences as a defenseman have always captivated me. His grace, intelligence, and defensive prowess are things I have admired from a young age and throughout my hockey journey.
And, of course, I couldn’t pass up the chance to have Gordie Howe join us, even though he’s no longer with us. His legendary status transcends eras, and his impact on the game is immeasurable. Sharing a meal with a hockey icon like Howe would be an unforgettable experience, and his stories would undoubtedly be an incredible addition to our Thanksgiving gathering. He was also one of my dad’s favorite players, and I’d like to imagine them playing together in that big hockey rink in the sky.
Bob Heyrman
It’s a tough call narrowing down just three former or current Detroit Red Wings to share Thanksgiving with. Bob Probert would undoubtedly make the gathering lively—his presence, a mix of entertaining tales, and a touch of unpredictability. He carried a heavyweight title on the ice and, off it, a trove of captivating stories. Plus, having a bit of a bodyguard vibe around, especially during a holiday weekend of potential ginger ale indulgence, wouldn’t hurt.
Speaking of storytellers, there’s the quick-witted defenseman Chris Chelios, known for spinning tales about his experiences. His downtown Detroit escapades while with the Red Wings, often rubbing elbows with celebrities like Kid Rock, promise a night filled with anecdotes. And who wouldn’t want to hear more about his off-the-record tales, especially in the aftermath of Mike Babcock’s era?
Gordie Howe, a legend in his own right, holds tales from an era where a hockey stick sometimes doubled as a weapon. I’m eager to hear about his childhood adventures in the frozen lands of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
But if pressed to choose three, my first pick would undoubtedly be Steve Yzerman. He’s been my idol since childhood, embodying elite captaincy both on and off the ice. His wealth of hockey wisdom, transitioning seamlessly from a Hall of Fame player to a successful manager, is simply captivating.
Next up is Sergei Fedorov, a personal favorite athlete with an incredible narrative. His firsthand account of the Russian Five era and his defection journey from Russia to the Red Wings is a story I’d love to hear from the man himself. I’m curious about his perspective on the events leading to his eventual departure from the team and the underlying reasons behind his decision.
Completing the trio is former head coach Scotty Bowman, a repository of unparalleled hockey knowledge. His stories, ranging from the historic Montreal Canadiens to the legendary Red Wings teams, are boundless. And let’s not forget his ingenious pranks on opposing teams; those tales are absolute must-hears.
In essence, selecting just three from a pool of Red Wings legends is no easy task. Each player brings a unique flavor of hockey history, and spending Thanksgiving in their company would be an absolute honor.
The Resilience and Camaraderie of Detroit’s Hockey Icons at Thanksgiving
It’s fascinating how these athletes represent more than just hockey prowess; they embody resilience, camaraderie, and the spirit of Detroit itself. As we envision a Thanksgiving dinner with these iconic figures, it’s a reminder of the rich tapestry of personalities and experiences that make up this storied franchise.
Whether sharing tales from the rink or diving into personal anecdotes, the prospect of gathering with these players symbolizes the essence of gratitude, celebration, and the unifying power of sports. As we set the table in our minds, contemplating this dream gathering, it’s a testament to the enduring impact these players have had on the sport and the hearts of fans.
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Sharing a meal with our idols would be the experience of a lifetime, and we’re sure you’d invite a legendary lineup to your Thanksgiving dinner. Please share with us the three Detroit Red Wings players you would invite to dinner!