– The Red Wings announced their 2011-12 schedule that includes one of the most fan-friendly schedules for fans throughout Hockeytown to come see the Wings play at Joe Louis Arena as a total of 24 home games are slated for Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The regular season begins with a fantastic October lineup that starts on opening night with an Eastern Conference battle vs. the Ottawa Senators and their new head coach, former Wings assistant Paul MacLean. The exciting October schedule also includes the first of six “Bobblehead Thursdays” at The Joe when 2011 Stanley Cup finalist Vancouver comes to town on October 13. The first collectable bobblehead will feature Pavel Datsyuk while the final Thursday game of the season, April 5 vs. New Jersey, will honor 7-time Norris Trophy winner Nicklas Lidstrom