The Detroit Red Wings have been very selective about retiring player numbers, a practice that has only been extended to eight players thus far. The most recent addition to the club is Red Kelly’s number 4, signaling that the team reserves this honor for the greatest and most influential players in their history. While some teams may retire numbers more liberally, the Red Wings’ stringent approach ensures that only truly iconic figures are celebrated in this way. This practice reflects the team’s tradition and careful recognition of its legendary figures.
Among the many players who could be worthy of having their numbers retired, Sergei Fedorov is frequently mentioned, with former Red Wings general manager Ken Holland acknowledging the possibility of honoring Fedorov’s legendary number 91 back in 2015. While Fedorov’s career with the Red Wings was certainly remarkable, another name that stands out in recent memory is Henrik Zetterberg. Zetterberg, a loyal and hard-working forward, made an indelible impact on the team over his 15-year career with the Red Wings. Despite the organization’s tradition of prioritizing loyalty, Zetterberg’s accomplishments and dedication to the team make him a standout candidate for having his number 40 retired.
Zetterberg’s Legacy as Captain
Henrik Zetterberg’s leadership on the ice is a major part of his legacy. On January 15, 2013, Zetterberg was named the 36th captain of the Detroit Red Wings. His tenure as captain lasted five years, before his unexpected retirement in 2018. Zetterberg’s leadership was especially significant in a period of transition for the franchise, which saw the end of its remarkable 25-year playoff streak. The team did not appoint a new captain until 2021 when Dylan Larkin took over the role.
Across the eight retired jerseys in team history, seven of the players were captains, with only legendary goaltender Terry Sawchuk being the exception. This further underscores the importance of a captain’s role in the Red Wings’ history, making Zetterberg’s time as captain a key part of his qualification for this recognition.
Though Zetterberg’s individual accolades may not place him among the all-time greats in terms of regular-season achievements, his contributions to the Red Wings were nothing short of legendary. He ended his career with 960 points, a respectable total, but it was his performance in the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs that truly solidified his place in franchise lore.
Zetterberg’s critical role in the finals, particularly during Game 4 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, became the stuff of legend. His penalty-killing shift in that game was dubbed the “Conn Smythe Shift” by Red Wings fans, showcasing his elite defensive play. Zetterberg’s performance in the postseason earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP, further solidifying his importance to the team and his legacy as one of the NHL’s premier two-way forwards.
Loyalty to Detroit Despite Challenges
One of the key reasons why Zetterberg should have his number 40 retired is his unwavering loyalty to the Red Wings. In 2009, Zetterberg signed a 12-year contract with the team, a deal that was the longest in the Red Wings’ history at the time. Despite battling serious back issues in his later years, Zetterberg continued to give his all for the team.
The Red Wings experienced several difficult seasons during this time, including a heartbreaking playoff loss to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 and a gradual decline following the end of their 25-year playoff streak. Yet Zetterberg remained committed to the team, often facing the media and carrying the burden of leading the Red Wings through challenging years. His eventual forced retirement due to his back issues marked the end of an era for the franchise and symbolized his dedication to the organization through its toughest times.
Henrik Zetterberg’s connection to the Detroit Red Wings transcends his statistics and leadership; he truly embodied the spirit of Red Wings hockey. Alongside his linemate Pavel Datsyuk, Zetterberg helped define the Red Wings’ style of play for nearly a decade. While Datsyuk often garnered individual accolades, Zetterberg’s work ethic and commitment to the team became central to the franchise’s identity.
Zetterberg, a seventh-round draft pick, grew into one of the most important players in the organization’s history, particularly in a city known for its resilience and tough blue-collar attitude. Zetterberg was never the flashiest player, but his relentless work ethic and consistent contributions made him the epitome of the Red Wings’ values. His number 40 is synonymous with the franchise, and it would be fitting for the team to honor his legacy by retiring his jersey, alongside those of the greats who shaped the team’s storied history.
