DETROIT -- The NHL apparently is trying to end a Detroit playoff tradition that dates back to the early 1950s -- tossing an octopus onto the ice.

The Detroit Red Wings today released the following statement:

"The throwing of objects onto the ice surface is prohibited by the National Hockey League and persons caught doing so may be subject to prosecution for violating local and state laws.''

A Canton man reportedly was ejected from the arena and given a citation for $500 for throwing an octopus onto the ice just before the opening faceoff in Game 1 of the Western Conference quarterfinals vs. Phoenix on Wednesday.

“I don't know anything about it,'' Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said. "I like calamari as much as they next guy, I don't like batter on it, but I like it spicy and cooked. It's part of the tradition here. I just hope the guys that come on to scrape it off aren't digging up the ice. I want it to be smooth.''

Red Wings players said they would like to see the tradition continue.

"I haven't heard any opponents complaining about it,'' Nicklas Lidstrom said. "We feed off the crowd getting into it. Whether it's an octopus coming onto the ice or goals being scored, it's a big boost when our fans get into it.''

Johan Franzen joked that he'll take up a collection to help pay the fine for the next fan who is caught doing it.

Justin Abdelkader said the tradition is "exciting.''

"The fans are excited, we're excited. It means it's that time of year,'' Abdelkader said.“It shows the dedication of our fans, how into it they are. It's great the support we get. The octopi is a great tradition here and I think it'll be here forever.''

A couple of Phoenix players said they're not upset when an octopus lands onto the ice in their zone after the national anthem.

“It's fine'' Coyotes captain Shane Doan said. "Tradition's fun. It's a good part of sports. You understand it was a long, long time ago when there was only eight games (needed) to win (the Stanley Cup). It's pretty special here. Part of their game.''

Said goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov:“It doesn't bother me. They're not throwing the whole octopus on me. Otherwise I would stink.''