Fedorov says “I’m a Red Wing at heart” during HHOF induction speech

By @StefanKubus –

Perhaps the most electrifying and flashy Detroit Red Wings forward in franchise history, Sergei Fedorov was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame Monday night in Toronto.

Former Russian Five linemate and fellow Hockey Hall of Fame member Igor Larionov presented Fedorov with his honorary plaque.

“I would never expect something like that,” Fedorov said in his induction speech. “I never believed and thought something like that would happen to me. It’s such an honor to be here tonight to speak in front of you. I’ve been so fortunate in my career, my life, filled with many great people. They had such a positive influence on me.”

In 1,248 career games, Fedorov amassed 483 goals and 696 assists for 1,179 points – making him the highest-scoring Russian-born player of all-time. Washington’s Alexander Ovechkin is one goal shy of breaking that mark, and the Caps visit the Wings at Joe Louis Arena Tuesday night.

When it came to playoff time, Fedorov was up to the task, too, possibly even performing at a higher level, especially in 1998 when he played a pivotal role in helping Detroit capturing its second-straight Stanley Cup – the last team to achieve such a feat. In 162 career playoff games with Detroit, Fedorov amassed 50 goals and 113 assists. Fedorov was a point-per-game player, even when the pressure dramatically escalated.

In 1994, Fedorov captured the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s most valuable player, becoming the first Russian to do so.

“I got drafted in 1989 by Detroit Red Wings,” Fedorov said of his time in Detroit. “I made my decision in a year to come and play in the National Hockey League, the best league in the world. I got so lucky, and I’d like to thank the Ilitch family to give me opportunity to be a Red Wing. I’m a Red Wing at heart.

As every hockey player knows, Fedorov was sure to thank his parents first for their support over the years. Of course, he also thanked longtime coach Scotty Bowman, but not just for their relationship on the ice as it pertains to hockey.

“I’d also like to thank Scotty Bowman. He’s not only the greatest hockey coach, but he’s a great human being, showed me a lot, taught me a lot, he made me understand to realize what life was all about, on the ice and off the ice.”