Nearly two years after he took command of the Detroit Red Wings, Steve Yzerman has strengthened his inner circle with the hiring of former teammate Nicklas Lidstrom.
Lidstrom, who retired in 2012 with four Stanley Cups, will serve as vice president of hockey operations.
Lidstrom ranks as one of the all-time greats in franchise history, known for his excellent positional play and durability.
Lidstrom, 51, returned to his native Sweden shortly after announcing his retirement in the spring of 2012. In addition to being a key member of the championships in 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2008, Lidstrom served as captain following Yzerman's retirement in 2006.