In 1982, Mike and Marian Ilitch purchased the Detroit Red Wings from the Norris family, who had owned the franchise for half a century.

The early years weren't easy but, with some successful drafting led by Neil Smith, the foundation was laid for a team which eventually made the playoffs 25 consecutive years.

The Ilitch's are synonymous with Detroit. Owners of the MLB Tigers and the Little Caesar's franchise, Neil also shares a story about the family patriarch and an iconic figure in American history which many may not ever heard.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

#NHLWraparound #ShortShifts #NYCentric #NeilSmith #VicMorren #AdirondackRedWings #CalderCup #MikeIlitch #MarianIlitch #ChrisIlitch #DetroitTigers #LittleCaesars #MargueriteNorris #RosaParks