Igor Larionov

[vorosilov]

Igor Larionov

I watch every game of the Detroit Red Wings,

But not for Izerman, Shanahan, Fedorov, Lidstrom. I watch those games because I have a chance to see Igor playing at 42.
Is there a Sport Hall of Fame in Russia? He belongs there for sure.

[John_G]

hi Vorosilov,

I've been a Wings/hockey fan since I can remember; I am 42. I can remember when they played in the "Snorris division" and were called the "Dead Wings".

The players you listed are great players, however, Detroit fans know what we have when Larionov ("Iggy" or "The Professor") takes the ice. He can control or change the tempo of a game with his puck control style, the only time he will dump the puck in is for a line change. He is a favorite of Detroit's local broadcasters and Hockey Night in Canada always speak highly of him. During last years playoff against Vancouver the press wanted Larionov replaced with Jason Williams for more speed. The broadcasters were appalled. I can only image what leadership he provides off the ice as well. He has been compaired to Gretzky for play making ability, however, I hate to compair players. Each should be enjoyed for who they are.

Yes, he belongs in the Russian Hall of Fame and NHL Hall of Fame. If there is a Russian Hall of Fame please make room for Vladimir Konstantinov. Imagine the Red Wings if he could play.

My favorite Wing is Pavel Datsyuk, what a surpise!

[jutka]

Larionov is also not bad looking!

[carter]

Dallas' best goon, Darrien Hatcher, is going to punch Larionov into retirement during the playoffs. Say poka paka to Larionov. In Dallas we are planning a big retirement party for Draper, Shannahan, Hull, Chelios and Larionov.

[jutka]

yeah right, NEVER I say! He's no old fart, he can skate and score with the best of them!

[John_G]

hi jutka,

"He's no old fart, he can skate and score with the best of them". Ah, yes the truth.
Larionov is 6th on the Wings in points and he would be sixth or seventh with the Stars. Not bad for an "old fart". If Hatcher does run at him, I don't think he will connect. Either way, McCarty, Avery and Shanahan could take care of Hatcher if he gets too nasty. Hatcher has 4 fighting majors and he is a plus 36 this year; not really "goon" like numbers. He did not make the 2002 USA Olympic team and that upset (or inspired) him to have a good year; 3rd in the Norris race behind MacInnes and Lidstrom. Refering to Hatcher as a "goon" and Larionov as a(n) old fart really shows Carter's warped sense of humor or just plain ignorance of the game.

[jutka]

Yes he's great, but my favourite is still Fedorov!!