Originally posted on April 10, 2017.
Current and former Detroit Red Wings players and their fans said goodbye to the Joe Louis Arena, which closed its doors for the final time following an emotional 4-1 win over the New Jersey Devils.
After the final horn sounded and the Red Wings players saluted the fans and the arena that they have called home, it was time for the Farewell to the Joe ceremony. Included in the festivities was “The Captain” Steve Yzerman, who played his entire 22-year career in Detroit.
Yzerman was the first guest speaker in the ceremony and to say that the fans gave him a homecoming welcome would be an understatement. During his speech, the Hall of Famer gave the Red Wings and their fans credit for making the NHL Playoffs 25 consecutive seasons. He also thanked the Ilitch family and talked about his fondest memories of the Joe Louis Arena, including winning the Stanley Cup in 1997.
Check out the video for yourself and pay close attention towards the end as the JLA crowd in attendance starts chanting, “Come home Stevie!” over and over again.
Former #RedWings captain Steve Yzerman has his final say at the Joe. #farewell2thejoe pic.twitter.com/5zvz5gLdWp
— Bally Sports Detroit (@BallySportsDET) April 10, 2017
