Special to Detroit Free Press
In the spring of 1997 — a quarter-century ago — the Detroit Red Wings embarked on their quest to end a 42-year Stanley Cup drought.
The Free Press has commemorated that historic quest with a new book: “Stanleytown: The Inside Story of How the Stanley Cup Returned to the Motor City After 41 Frustrating Seasons.”
Day 24: May 9, 1997
The backstory: With hopes of nine or 10 days between series, the Red Wings flew back to the Motor City after completing their sweep of the Mighty Ducks at 3:27 a.