The Lokomotiv Yaroslavl Crash that happened on September 7 was tragic for hockey and the Detroit Red Wings

This devastating event occurred when the plane carrying the team crashed shortly after takeoff into the Volga River. The team was en route to their first game of the KHL season.

Among the 44 people who died, three had ties to the Detroit Red Wings: Brad McCrimmon, a former Red Wings defenseman and assistant coach, Ruslan Salei, who played defense for Detroit during the 2010-11 season, and Stefan Liv, a goaltending prospect who had been drafted by the Wings in 2000.

McCrimmon had left Detroit to pursue his dream of being a head coach in Russia, while Salei and Liv were also beloved figures in the hockey world. McCrimmon, known for his mentorship, had guided a young Nicklas Lidstrom during his first NHL season, and Lidstrom spoke of McCrimmon's wisdom and influence.

Other notable names lost in the crash included former NHL stars like Pavol Demitra, Karlis Skrastins, Igor Korolev, and Josef Vasicek. The loss of such talent and personalities has left a lasting impact on hockey.

Stefan Liv's legacy lives on through his son, Herman Liv, a goalie for Örebro in the SHL. Herman honors his father's memory by featuring a likeness of him on his goalie mask, a touching tribute that ensures his father's spirit remains present in the sport he loved.

This tragedy, alongside the recent deaths of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matt, has left the hockey community grappling with profound loss and reflecting on the importance of remembering those who have shaped the sport.

Source: DetHockeyNow
Lokomotiv Crash Was Tragic For Hockey, Red Wings