NHL Free Agent Rumors: Nicklas Lidstrom Expected to Announce Retirement

It appears that Nicklas Lidstrom will announce his retirement tomorrow, after confirmation from many different sources, primarily Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press.

The Detroit Red Wings announced that, tomorrow at 11:00 a.m., there would be a press conference involving Nicklas Lidstrom and general manager Ken Holland. 

Here is a tweet that confirms the notion that Lidstrom will retire tomorrow:

"

Source just confirmed to me Nicklas Lidstrom is retiring after 20 seasons in NHL.

— Helene St. James (@freepwings) May 30, 2012"

Aaron Ward, former player and current TSN analyst, followed up with this tweet in regards to Lidstrom:

"

"

"

According to source,Nic Lidstrom will announce his retirement tomorrow in Detroit. #TSN

— Aaron Ward (@aaronward_nhl) May 30, 2012

"

"

"

Lidstrom is arguably one of the greatest defenseman to ever lace up a pair of skates in NHL history. He also may go down as the greatest European player in NHL history.

During his 20-year career, Lidstrom was a seven-time Norris Trophy winner, a Conn Smythe Trophy winner, a four-time Stanley Cup champion and was named an All-Star 12 times.

Lidstrom's departure opens up a huge void on the blue line, so once this news is official, expect the Ryan Suter-to-Detroit rumors to start making the rounds. 

For more information as this story develops, check back to the Bleacher Report NHL page frequently.