This change is notable as Vladimir Tarasenko previously wore No. 91 and No. 10 in his career. The decision to avoid No. 91, last worn by Sergei Fedorov, sidesteps potential controversy.
Sergei Fedorov's legacy with the Detroit Red Wings remains contentious. Some fans advocate for his number to be retired, while others within the organization still have reservations about how he left the team.
The No. 11 jersey, which Vladimir Tarasenko will don, has a history in the Detroit Red Wings. Filip Zadina, who didn't quite meet expectations, wore it most recently. Before him, the late Shawn Burr was perhaps the most beloved Detroit Red Wing to wear No. 11, with Daniel Alfredsson also having worn it during his one season in Detroit.
Here's a look at the numbers assigned to other newcomers:
Tyler Motte, No. 14:
Last worn by: Robby Fabbri, before his trade to Anaheim.
Worn best by: Brendan Shanahan, who wore it during Detroit's Stanley Cup victories in 1997, 1998, and 2002.
Jack Campbell, No. 32:
Last worn by: Brian Lashoff in 2018-19.
Worn best by: Tim Cheveldae, who was in net from 1990-94.
Cam Talbot, No. 39:
Last worn by: Alex Nedeljkovic.
Worn best by: Hall of Famer Dominik Hasek, who led Detroit to a Stanley Cup in 2001-02.
Eric Gustafsson, No. 56:
Last worn by: Ryan Kuffner in 2018-19.
Worn best by: Teemu Pulkkinen, who scored 11 goals over 70 games between 2013-2016.
Jakub Rychlovsky, No. 81:
Last worn by: Frans Nielsen in 2020-21.
Worn best by: Marian Hossa, during his single season with Detroit.
William Lagesson, No. 84:
Last worn by: Olli Juolevi in 2024.
Worn best by: Jake Chelios, the son of Chris Chelios.
These number changes reflect the players' fresh starts and the deep history associated with each number in Detroit Red Wings lore.
Source: DetHockeyNow
Red Wings By The Numbers: Newcomers Choose Their Digits
POLL | ||
Do you think the Detroit Red Wings will make the playoffs with the addition of Vladimir Tarasenko? | ||
Yes | 44 | 83 % |
No | 9 | 17 % |
List of polls |