Very few on earth personify the deke like Pavel “Magic Man” Datsyuk. For 14 years, Datsyuk dazzled Red Wings hockey fans night in and night out with his creativity, vision and hands.
Datsyuk mystified defenders and goalies with unorthodox sorcery. A rare combination of body control and slick hands allowed Pavel Datsyuk to leave his peers, fans and teammates in awe. With the puck seemingly on a string, Datsyuk left bedazzled NHL level competitors looking for their jock straps.
His skills and unique talents were rewarded when the Red Wings called his name in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft with the 171st overall pick. Hardly a one trick pony, Pavel played 953 NHL games between the 2001-2016 and during that time led all NHL forwards in plus/minus with a plus 249 rating. His decorated career was well recognized with four consecutive Lady Byng Trophies, four Selke Trophies and two Stanley Cup championships with the Red Wings.
Deke Hockey’s Three Stars:
- Datsyukian Deke! Need I say more?
- Dubbed the Euro Twins, Datsyuk & Henrik Zetterberg were unstoppable.
- Datsyuk’s dekes combined with a 200 ft. game made him one of a kind.
Bottom Line:
Datsyuk was worth the price of admission during his playing days and more worthy of taking a few minutes to revel in his highlights. The Datsyukian Deke was best on display with his backhand drag and finish into the gaping net formerly tended by Marty Turco.
