Pavel Datsyuk, one of the greatest players in Detroit Red Wings history, doesn't want a new role with the organization.
The 2024 Hockey Hall of Fame Class, set to be inducted in November, includes many stars, with Datsyuk being a standout. Fans still enjoy watching his highlight reels, and he acknowledges how fortunate he is.
«I'm still recognizing I'm there and it's hard to believe,» he said. «Of course, I feel like I'm a lucky boy.»
While Datsyuk is excited to return to the U.S. for his induction, he has no interest in joining the Detroit Red Wings in any capacity. He enjoys his current role as a coach for Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg in the KHL and values spending time with his family.
«I miss Detroit but now I have a job, I'm a hockey player development back at home,» Datsyuk explained. He prioritizes spending time with his family, stating, «I want to stay with my family, spend more time at home.»
Though things might change with former teammate Steve Yzerman leading the Red Wings, for now, don't expect to see Datsyuk return to Detroit in a full-time role.