Detroit News column
January 1, 2007
by Terry Foster

The debate regarding the true Mr. Red Wing will go on forever. Many older fans say the title belongs to Gordie Howe, who scored 801 NHL goals, led the league in scoring six times and was league MVP six times.

The youngsters throw their support behind Steve Yzerman, who scored 692 goals and led the Wings to three Stanley Cups before retiring after last season.

It’s Mr. Hockey against the Captain.

We can settle that debate another day. On Tuesday, the Red Wings and Detroit’s sports fans will honor Yzerman as the team retires his No. 19 before a game against Anaheim at Joe Louis Arena.

It is one of those evenings you will want to hang downtown, even if you do not have a ticket to the game. A number of places, including Hockeytown Cafe, Cheli’s Chili Bar and the Anchor Bar will have pre-game parties and specials during the game to entertain fans and to encourage them to watch the ceremony.

Fans at Hockeytown will get a chance to win standing-room tickets for the sold-out game.

Howe might have the edge as the greatest Wing, but Yzerman retired as Detroit’s most popular player, easily outdistancing Barry Sanders and Isiah Thomas, both of whom have not escaped controversy.

Yzerman went out on his own terms and fans seemed OK with his decision because they could see the pain and suffering he endured.