Brian Manzullo

Detroit Free Press

What a day. And what a night.

The final Detroit Red Wings game at Joe Louis Arena has come and gone. And we won't soon forget it.

We had the red carpet introduction. We had the ceremonial puck drop with ex-Red Wings legend Steve Yzerman. We had Riley Sheahan scoring his first goal of the season and Henrik Zetterberg scoring in his 1,000th game with the Wings.

Read more:

Detroit Red Wings say farewell to Joe Louis Arena, close a chapter

Red Wings, franchise greats send off Joe Louis Arena in postgame ceremony

Free Press photographers Mandi Wright and Kirthmon F. Dozier chronicled the entire day at Joe Louis Arena, in photos, from the red carpet to the game to the farewell ceremony afterward.

Check 'em out:

Remembering Joe Louis

He was one of the greatest and most beloved athletes in his field. He still holds the record as longest-reigning champion in his sport. His name is synonymous with the best of Detroit because he brought glory and honor to a city that craved it. So when the $600-million Little Caesars Arena opens next season amid fanfare and the celebration of surrounding neighborhoods — and the hockey lights go out on the massive house that bears the name Joe Louis — what happens then to his name and legacy? Free Press Columnist Rochelle Riley asked readers, and they responded in droves with ideas ranging from putting his name on golf courses and parks to renaming Hart Plaza to creating a Champions Museum to honor Louis and other Detroit greats who deserve never to be forgotten. Mayor Mike Duggan has pledged to review all of the ideas and said: “The city of Detroit will honor Louis’ memory in the way he deserves." Rochelle is collecting ideas through April 30. Send yours to rriley99@freepress.com with the subject line: REMEMBERING JOE LOUIS.

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