06/16/2018
On this day in 1998, the Detroit Red Wings became back to back Stanley Cup Champions. Sweeping both the Capitals and Flyers in the previous year, the Wings were solidified as a force to be reconed with in the NHL. Lead again by Coach Scotty Bowman and team captain, Steve Yzerman, who also deservingly was named MVP. After going up a quick three games in the series, the Wings continued to apply the pressure in Game 4. Controlling from start to finish the Wings closed out the series in Washington with a score of 4-1. During the ceremony after the game, Vladimir Konstantinov who was still bound to a wheel chair following the tragic accident, joined his teammates on the ice. In an emotional display, Yzerman handed the cup to Vladdie first as the entire team joined him for a victory lap around the rink. Although it was under bittersweet circumstances, the Wings made sure that Konstantinov's name was included on the engraving of the trophy. Following the '98 season, Detroit was officially recognized and respected as Hockeytown, USA. The legend would only continue to grow with a 25 consectuive year streak of playoff apperances and another two Stanley Cup Championships within 10 years.
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