Steve Yzerman is by far one of the greatest players in the National Hockey League today. His leadership ability
both on and off the ice makes him a essential part of the Red Wing's organization. With 62 wins,
the Detroit Red Wings have past the NHL's record of most regular season wins during the
'95-'96 season. Being the 1996-1997 Stanley Cup Champions indisputably proves that the Detroit
Redwings are one the greatest teams in the history of the sport.
Steve Yzerman was born in Cranbrook, British Columbia on May 9, 1965. He lived there nine
years until his father had to move the family to Nepean, Ontario in 1974. Steve started playing
hockey at the age of 7. Compared to the likes of Wayne Gretzky it was a late start. Most
players like him started playing hockey on the ponds behind there house at the age or two or
three. Steve was a fast learner. Only 10 years after playing his first orgainzed hockey game he
entered the NHL. Steve has played in the NHL longer than most players to date.
Steve Yzerman was pick fourth overall in the 1983 NHL draft. Some of the players that were
picked ahead of him were Pat LaFontaine and Brian Lawton. Steve is the only player of the top
10 players in that draft that is still playing for his original team. He just signed his latest contract
with the wings. It will allow him to be the only one in that draft class to retire with his original team.
