Vladimir Konstantinov Plays Hockey For First Time in Over 20 Years

Konstantinov was always a long-shot to make the NHL. He was drafted in the 11th round, 221st overall by the Red Wings in 1989. However, he would go on to beat the odds, as he became a staple on the team's blueline starting in the 1991-92 season. He would go on to play 446 career NHL games, all with the Detroit Red Wings. He netted 47 goals and 175 points in those games. However, his career was tragically cut short after he was involved in a Serious limousine accident that seriously injured himself along with some of his Red Wings teammates. The accident left Konstantinov paralyzed from the waist down, ending his career in hockey.

However, the Red Wings legend was able to return to the ice yesterday as he participated in a sled hockey event with Belle Tire's sled hockey team.

Shockingly, this is just the first time Konstantinov has played sled hockey, making it the first time he's gotten to participate in the sport since the accident. This is just the kind of feel good story the Red Wings needed right now. After all, the team has fallen on hard times this season. Recently, tensions have reached a breaking point during a losing streak that could cost them a playoff spot. Lucas Raymond and Ben Chiarot infamously had to be separated from each other at a recent Red Wings practice.

The Red Wings remain in the playoff race however. Hopefully they will be able to rebound and make the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade.

Source Blade of Steel: Paralyzed Detroit Red Wings legend Vladimir Konstantinov plays again