Nicklas Lidstrom dressed up
Playing five games in nine nights on the road is a challenge in itself. Adding in traveling across three time zones makes it even more grueling, but the off -ce challenges can be equally difficult for the players.
Accustomed to making shorter trips, the players now have to consider wardrobe for three different climates. They started their trip in Chicago where it was unseasonably cold, and are now in California where the temperatures are expected to be in the 80s. Then it’s up the west coast to San Jose where they should expect some rain and temperatures in the mid-70s. Speaking of rain, they wrap up their trip with a visit to Vancouver where it seems to rain continuously, and the forecast calls for … rain, and temperatures in the mid-50s.
When I asked several of the players how they plan for a 10-day trip, the question was met with a similar first response -- a chuckle.
“First of all you start by looking at how many games you have and you pack your suits, and then grab a few shirts,” said captain Nicklas Lidstrom. “And then you start to look at your off days and decide what you need for them.”
Another benefit of going on the road is the opportunity to dine at some great restaurants, and Lidstrom was looking forward to going to Morton’s and Nobu’s in Los Angeles.
Although still relatively new to the rigors of NHL travel, Derek Meech, who played junior hockey in Red Deer, Alberta is a veteran of long road trips.
“In junior we had a few trips that were pretty long, and on the bus they were grueling. This one is a little bit different, a little bit nicer,” said Meech with a bit of emphasis.
“It’s nice to go out with your buddies on the team, and go out for a nice dinner and chum around.”
And as far as packing, he focused more on how to prepare for the off days. “I’m not sure what the weather is going to be but it might be a little hot so you have to get your shorts in there, and just enough clothes for those days, and a couple suits and that should do it.”
Henrik Zetterberg focused on technology when discussing what he brings on the road. “My computer, that’s the most important thing. On the road you can go online and you can watch movies and TV series on the plane. And you bring some extra shirts and jeans. It’s tough to pack for 10 days, you try to bring as much as possible but not too much.”
Detroit and Columbus are the only two teams in the Eastern Time Zone that play in the Western Conference, and as such a majority of the road games within their conference involve changing time zones.
The Detroit Red Wings Second Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Night sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan/ Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Dental program held on Friday, October 24, raised $27,000 for local hockey families battling breast cancer. The game was part of the National Hockey League’s Hockey Fights Cancer (HFC) month when all NHL players wear special HFC decals on the back of their helmets to signify the NHL’s collective effort to raise cancer awareness. Partial proceeds from HFC merchandise sold at Joe Louis Arena, including men’s neckties, ladies scarves and hats, will also benefit the Wings program to raise money for local families.
Marian Hossa was named the NHL's third star for the week ending October 26. Hossa scored three goals and three assist for six points in Detroit's three victories. Jarome Iginla of the Calgary Flames was the first start with seven points in three games. Goaltender Peter Budaj of the Colorado Avalanche was named the second star posting a 1.62 goals against average in three wins.
Comments
Lidstrom looks like he's ready to walk down a fashion show runway with Ray Emery....
Great story! Keep em' coming each blog is better than the one before!!!! Great take on what's in your suitcase! Looking forward to your next blog!
Such a good story that the windsor star ripped you off today!
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