Pavel Datsyuk delivers bad news to Red Wings fans
Red Wings fans who were hoping Pavel Datsyuk would return to take an official role with the organization like so many other past players have will be disappointed.
The Detroit Red Wings have several former top players now working within the organization, most notably with the legendary and iconic former captain Steve Yzerman serving as general manager.
Several other notable players serve in various roles, including Nicklas Lidstrom, Kris Draper, Kirk Maltby, Dan Cleary, Niklas Kronwall, and unofficially, Henrik Zetterberg.
But for fans who were hoping that recently inducted Hockey Hall of Famer Pavel Datsyuk would return in an official capacity to the only NHL team he played for, they'll have to wait.
As Datsyuk explained to the Russian news agency Tass, he has no interest in leaving his role as development and skills coach with KHL club Avtomobilist.
I like being in the arena with the guys, being part of the club and helping it. I will continue to do this with pleasure.
While Datsyuk said he misses Detroit, he's settled into his role and wants to continue.
Pavel Datsyuk was a rookie on the 2001-02 Hall of Fame squad
Datsyuk entered the NHL as a 23 year old rookie on the legendary 2001-02 club that featured 9 future Hockey Hall of Fame players.
Ironically, he would become the 10th Hall of Famer player from that championship team when he was inducted into hockey immortality last year.
In 953 career NHL games, Datsyuk amassed 918 points (314G, 604A).
