Tomas Holmstrom, the best net-front presence in the NHL over the past 15 seasons for the Detroit Red Wings, is expected to announce his retirement soon, now that the lockout is over.

Holmstrom, who turns 40 on Jan. 23, informed the club of his intentions a while ago. The team did not want to make an announcement during the work stoppage. It will hold a news conference at Joe Louis Arena, likely before the start of the season.

Holmstrom scored 243 goals and added 287 assists in 1,026 games. His goal total includes 122 on the power play, which ranks third in franchise history behind Steve Yzerman (202) and Nicklas Lidstrom (132). Statistics for power-play goals weren't kept for much of Gordie Howe's career.

Holmstrom had many more goals disallowed because referees ruled he either interfered with the goaltender or was in the crease.

His perseverance around the net was unparalleled. Especially during his early years, he absorbed constant slashes, cross-checks and other abuse from defensemen and goaltenders. He still managed to screen the goalie and tip numerous shots past goalies. And, despite his lack of speed, he was tremendous at retrieving the puck.

The 257th overall pick (10th round) in the 1994 NHL entry draft, Holmstrom played on four Stanley Cup championship teams (1997, 1998, 2002, 2008).