Alfredsson's leadership shining through for Red Wings

Michigan Live paints a picture of how 41-year-old Daniel Alfredsson has been coming through in the clutch for the Detroit Red Wings when they most need him, especially given the inordinate amount of injuries - and to key, veteran players - on the roster.

"(Niklas) Kronwall's really done a job for us leadership-wise but Alfredsson's another one of those guys who's been around a long time," said coach Mike Babcock. "This is what I'd say, (Alfredsson's) a high-end thinker. Obviously, when you're (41), you don't skate like you did when you're 25.

"But your mind is so good and we need his leadership as much as his playing and that's what he does for us."

Kronwall: "Alfie's been a huge part of our team ever since he signed. The leadership he brings, both on and off the ice ... you got to be (41) and played through a few different situations to keep that calm.

"Things like that rub off on other guys."

Source: Brendan Savage, Michigan Live