Classy captain Yzerman still wind beneath Wings

0 Comments | USA TODAY, April, 2006 | by Kevin Allen

DETROIT -- Just before training camp in 1983, Detroit Red Wings executive vice president Jimmy Devellano says he warned top draft pick Steve Yzerman that the 18-year-old might be returned to junior hockey if he was not "strong enough" to compete at the NHL level.

"He's 155 pounds, and within the first five minutes and three shifts in training camp, he's the best player on our team," Devellano says, laughing. "Here we are, 23 years later, and we are still watching him play for the Red Wings."

Even in the post-lockout NHL, rejuvenated with supposedly fresh stars, modern rules and more speed, one of the central themes of the playoffs that begin this weekend is whether Detroit's 40-year-old captain can lead the top-seeded Red Wings to their fourth championship under his...