1995-96 Kris Draper Detroit Red Wings Playoffs Worn “Claude Lemieux Hit” Jersey
(Photo-Matched • Started The Avs/Wings Rivalry • Playoff Team Stamp)
Historic Rivalry: Detroit Red Wings vs. Colorado Avalanche
The Infamous 1996 Western Conference Finals
The Detroit Red Wings and Colorado Avalanche rivalry stands as one of the most intense in professional sports history. From the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, these two teams dominated the NHL, capturing five Stanley Cup championships in a span of seven years. This fierce competition reached its peak during the 1996 Western Conference Finals, a series that would forever be etched in hockey lore.
The pivotal moment occurred in Game Six, when Avalanche forward Claude Lemieux delivered a devastating check to Detroit’s Kris Draper. This brutal hit, which left Draper with severe facial injuries, ignited a series of confrontations that fueled the rivalry for years to come. The incident not only intensified the animosity between the teams but also highlighted the physical and emotional intensity of playoff hockey.
Kris Draper’s Iconic Jersey
We are proud to present a piece of hockey history: Kris Draper’s jersey from that infamous game. This jersey is more than just a garment; it is a testament to the fierce battles and enduring legacy of the Red Wings-Avalanche rivalry. The jersey features:
- Manufacturer Details: Attached to the rear neck is the CCM manufacturer’s tag with a size “52” flag tag, accompanied by an “AUTHENTIC COLLECTION” tag.
- Commemorative Stamps: Stamped on the inside rear middle tail is “70th Anniversary” and “AUTHENTIC 1995-96 DETROIT RED WINGS GAME SWEATER,” along with the “96 PLAYOFFS” stamp and a depiction of the Stanley Cup.
- Team and Player Identification: The large Red Wings team logo crest adorns the chest, with the player number “33” on both sleeves and back, and the name “DRAPER” across the back, all in white tackle twill.
- Condition and Provenance: The jersey remains unwashed, bearing dried blood stains and board marks, vividly narrating the story of that fateful night. Presented to us as game-used, it shows outstanding use and is accompanied by a Photo-Match.com LOA confirming the match.
A Rare Piece of Hockey Memorabilia
This jersey is a rare and significant artifact from one of the greatest rivalries in sports. It is properly tagged and embodies the spirit and intensity of the NHL playoffs. For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey represents not only a moment in hockey history but also the enduring legacy of the Red Wings and Avalanche rivalry.
Explore more about our exclusive hockey memorabilia auctions and discover other remarkable pieces from the world of sports. If you have your own piece of history, consider consigning your NHL items with us. For those looking to sell hockey jerseys, our platform offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with passionate collectors. Additionally, our appraisal services ensure that your memorabilia is accurately valued and appreciated.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.