Lidstrom Claims More Hardware

Nicklas Lidstrom added to his hardware collection last night, claiming his second consecutive Norris Trophy at the NHL’s annual awards show.

Lidstrom becomes the first player since Raymond Bourque to repeat as a Norris Trophy winner. He beat out teammate Chris Chelios and Colorado’s Rob Blake, both previous winners.

“Just to be chosen as top three — I love it,” said Chelios, a three-time Norris Trophy winner.

Retiring Detroit coach and Norris Trophy presenter Scotty Bowman called the award the toughest trophy to win.

“This is really something special for me,” Lidstrom said.

Lidstrom plays against opponents’ top lines game in and game out, plays on special-teams units, and sees about thirty minutes of ice time a game.

“Nick is so good,” Wings general manager Ken Holland said. “He has given us a high level of performance over an extended period of time.”

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Lidstrom and Chelios are the first teammates to finish one-two in Norris Trophy voting… The Red Wings declined their team option on defenseman Steve Duchesne, he has until next Thursday to accept his player option for one year at $1 million.