When Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman first approached his old teammate Nicklas Lidstrom about joining the club as vice president of hockey operations, there was just one stipulation that in Lidstrom’s mind would be a deal breaker.
“I said that I will stay in Sweden when I get the chance,” Lidstrom explained to Swedish Hockey News. “So I am based here, but travel over from time to time.
“It may be every other month that I go over and work.”
Best defense pairing ever was Nicklas Lidstrom and Brian Rafalski, got to see them in person @ the Joe several times. Neither ever made mistakes and were deadly from the blue line. 7 Norris for Nick
— Don Phillips (@DonPhil55997353) July 8, 2025
Entering his fourth season in his role, not much has changed for the iconic former Red Wings defenseman. Nor has much changed for the Red Wings. Detroit is still seeking to break through and end a playoff drought that has extended to nine seasons.
“I remain in the same role as before,” Lidstrom said. “I will mainly scout here in Sweden, see our guys we have and scout as a pro scout, i.e., on possible free agents.
“And then I travel over (to Detroit) a number of times. About five or six times per season.”
Lidstrom Wants to be Part of the Red Wings Solution
Having played through the glory years, winning four Stanley Cups and seven Norris Trophies during his Hall of Fame career with the Red Wings, Lidstrom, 55, is determined to be part of the group that’s bringing Detroit back to NHL prominence.
DET @ MIN – 2/20/2011 – Game #59
Nicklas Lidstrom (12) – 1-0 Red Wings
Goal #196 #LGRW pic.twitter.com/KL4511K2JU
— Red Wings Goals In Order (@RedWingsVids) August 31, 2025
“I think it’s fun to be back in the organization again,” Lidstrom said. “When you were a player, you had one role, but in management, it’s a different role.
“You build the team and look at it from a different perspective than as a player. I really enjoy the role I have.”