Former Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom officially transitioned from Hall of Fame player to first-year scout for the Red Wings on Friday, as he told a Swedish television station. Lindstrom is an influential and recognizable Swedish player with valuable ties to the NHL, so his new role as scout and overseas ambassador seems like a perfect fit for both parties.

Nicklas Lidstrom announced his retirement from the NHL as a player back in May, but after 20 years in the game he couldn't completely disengage from professional hockey. After just two months he and the Red Wings started talking about a new role, and on Nov. 9 the relationship kicked off in earnest.

The future Hall of Famer had been helping out with coaching his 12-year-old son's hockey team during the break, but now he has a chance to get back into the game at a higher level, but more on his own terms.