The end of a long era in hockeytown and the beginning of a new era in Cowtown

 Well the end was almost certainly near in hockeytown as people in the hockey world tuned in yesterday to find out that after 20 seasons in the NHL, Nicklas Lidstrom decided to announce his retirement. It obviously came as no surprise as he had just turned 42 years old this past April. The Wings defense corps will take a huge blow for next season. Reason being is because no one on that roster can replace his 7 Norris trophies, his 1564 games played along with his experience in the postseason. Lidstrom along with Larry Robinson are the only two players in the game to not miss a single postseason in the careers. To add to his postseason resume, he won four Stanley Cups (1997,1998,2002,2008) and 1 Conn Smythe Trophy(2002). Another thing worth mentioning, Lidstrom durability was key as he would miss a handful games a year. This was due to him relying more on his brains rather than using brute force.
  So while everyone in Detroit were quietly mourning Lidstrom's annoucement, people in Calgary were thrilled to find out great news. GM Jay Feaster announced in a press conference that Bob Hartley will become the new head coach of the Flames. Hartley brings a wealth of experience to the team. In 651 games that he coached, he won the cup in Colorado (2001) and guided the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets to their only playoff apperence (2007). As well, apart from being an analist on RDS, he was also coach of the Zurich Lions of the Swiss League. In his short tenure overseas, he coached the squad that won the Swiss National Championship. With his experience along with his tireless work ethic and his attention to detail, he has everything a GM wants in a coach. The only question that remains however is can Hartley motivate an old squad and propel them to the postseason? Only Hartley knows the answer to that question. As for Lidstrom, where will he appear next after an illustrious career? A spot on the Joe Louis Arena's rafters and a spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame perhaps?